Prolific Tunbridge Wells burglar JAILED for raiding elderly couple's home and stealing £2K of jewellery

A Tunbridge Wells man has been jailed for burgling the home of an elderly couple and stealing their jewellery.

Michael Jonathon Smith, 24, previously of Pennington Road, was sentenced to three years imprisonment when he appeared before Maidstone Crown Court on 23 January. 

Smith also admitted committing nine other burglaries across Tunbridge Wells between October and December 2012.

On 7 December, Smith climbed through a window of the home of a couple aged in their 80s in Ramslye Road in Tunbridge Wells and stole jewellery worth between £1,500 - £2,000.

Identified by fingerprints at the scene, Smith was arrested on 8 January and later charged. 

The stolen jewellery – including a wedding and engagement rings - was never recovered.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Neil Buckle said: 'In interview Smith showed remorse for the fear and distress he had caused the victims but it was too late, and the damage had been done. 

'The jewellery he stole had huge sentimental value to the victims and it is unlikely they will get it back, as Smith indicated he had sold it. 

'Smith is one of three prolific burglars in the Tunbridge Wells area that we have a secured substantial prison sentences against recently and we will continue to proactively target burglars and ensure that they too are put behind bars.'