Man, 44, sent to jail for four years and six months

A 44-year-old man has been jailed for four years and six months after a crime spree on one evening in April.

Vincent Allen, 44, previously of Penfold Close, Northampton, burgled a property in Crawley Close, Northampton, on the evening of April 28, 2021, when the family – including young children – were inside at the time. He stole a Google Home mini speaker before making off.

Allen then tried to break into a neighbouring property without success before hitting a property in Hodder Street where he gained entry via the back door. He was disturbed by the occupants however and quickly made his escape.

An investigation was launched by Northamptonshire Police’s Burglary Team who identified Allen as the offender and arrested him at his home address. The stolen items were located inside his property.

Allen was later charged with two residential burglaries and one attempted burglary. He appeared at Northampton Crown Court last month where he pleaded guilty to the offences and was sentenced to four years and six months in prison.

Lead Investigator, PC Mark Edkins, said: “Vincent Allen went out on a one-night mini crime wave that evening in April leaving the victims distressed and upset, including young children who were present when they were burgled.

“This sentence reflects the seriousness of his actions that night and I hope he now has time to reflect on his decisions in future.

“We thank the courts for this sentence which demonstrates our commitment to punish those that feel that they can commit burglary in Northamptonshire and I would like to reassure the community that our resolve to catch people like Allen remains as strong as ever.”