Luton crook jailed 12 months for theft, fraud and drug offences

Shane Ellwood, 28, of Artur Street, appeared at Luton Crown Court for sentencing on Wednesday, September 16.

He pleaded guilty to each of the charges in relation to crimes committed in Luton and Flitwick between April and May this year.

Ellwood was arrested on May 6 after he was spotted on CCTV trying car handles in Guilford Street, Luton. Officers were dispatched and arrested him shortly afterwards in Station Road.

Once he was searched, a quantity of cannabis and heroin was found on his person as well as surgical gloves and a torch.

Ellwood was then forensically linked to further offences, including:

> Theft from a motor vehicle in Park Street, Luton on April 3;

> Theft of a car and a watch in Grave Pit Road, Flitwick on April 4;

> Handling stolen goods and fraud in the Farley Hill area of Luton on April 20;

Ellwood also admitted being involved in 12 other offences which were taken under consideration upon his sentencing.

Detective Constable Jason Wheeler, from the forces dedicated burglary team - Operation Maze, said: “Our force is dedicated to investigating burglaries and putting the perpetrators behind bars.

"Burglary not only causes financial loss to the victims, but also psychological trauma caused by the break-in and breach of the safety of their home.

“Whilst we are working hard to secure results, we would encourage residents to think about their home security as we are approaching darker nights.

"Please ensure that you keep your windows and doors double locked, and when going out at night, consider leaving a light on to make your home look lived in.”