CUMBRIA Police said it was a ‘force priority’ to prosecute criminals who commit burglaries in the county.

It comes after Gerald McBlain, 43, of James Street in Barrow, was jailed for two years and four months after pleading guilty to burglary and fraud by false representation.

Preston Crown Court heard the victim returned to his property on Montague Street at around 6:45 pm on April 14 this year to find his kitchen window open and the property ransacked inside.

India Woods, prosecuting, said the complainant noticed two wheelie bins had been moved and that items had been left on the bench outside.

She said McBlain stole a 12-year-old’s jacket and bank card which he attempted to use to buy Cadbury’s milk tray chocolates costing £7.49 at a newsagent on Rawlinson Street.

CCTV inquiries identified McBlain in the rear alleyway of Montague Street and footage from the store also showed him attempting to make a fraudulent transaction ‘with the card from the victim’s property.

READ MORE HERE: Prolific offender, 43, burgled wrong house before stealing child’s bank card - jailed

Detective Constable Rebecca Adkins, who was the officer in charge of the case, said: “McBlain had no thought for the impact burglary offences have on the victims, entry to their home was aggravated by him ransacking their home and attempt to use the stolen bank card. 

"Cumbria Police want to ensure the public feel safe in their homes and are aware any intrusion can have a significant impact particularly when it involves property being stolen in these circumstances.

"It is a force priority to ensure those who commit Burglary are prosecuted.

"We would like to remind people to remain vigilant, to report all burglary offences or any suspicious activity to the Police via our online reporting form, live chat or 101 or if a crime is occurring on 999."

The offences were investigated under Operation Themis – Cumbria Constabulary’s response to and focus on burglaries.