Gosport burglar jailed for five years

A 46 year-old man from Gosport has been jailed for five years on Friday 2 November at Portsmouth Crown Court after he admitted burglary.

The court heard that Anthony Hensman of Westfield Road stole a number of silver and gold rings. The jewellery taken also included: wedding rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and dining silverware, which altogether was worth more than £4,600. Hensman stole the items from a bungalow on Brockhurst Road between Wednesday 25 April and the following day.

Between 5pm and 5:30pm on Friday 7 September Hensman broke into a home on Veryan in Fareham through a first floor window and took jewellery worth more than £10,000.

Hensman was jailed for three years for the Brockhurst Road burglary and two years for the burglary on Veryan in Fareham, to be served consecutively.

Investigating officer PC Charlotte Pocock said: ”This sentence shows how seriously the courts view residential burglary offences and the impact that this crime can have on victims, especially if items of sentimental value are taken. I hope Hensman’s admission and this sentence will provide all those involved with some closure on the matter”.

We would like to take this opportunity to remind people of the following crime prevention advice:

• Shut all windows and lock them when you are not using the room, at night, and when you leave your property
• Lock all front and rear doors at night and when you are out. If you have a UPVC door with a multi-point lock ensure you lift the handle and lock it with the key.
• Put all car keys and other keys out of sight and not in reach of windows and letterboxes. It doesn't take much for the keys to be hooked through the letterbox.
• Leave a light on so your home looks occupied if you are going out for the evening. If you head out while it is still daylight and won't be back till after dark then a timer switches (available from most DIY stores) can be useful in turning your lights, radios and other appliances on at a set time before you get back.
• Ensure side gates are locked to prevent access to the rear of the property.
• Do not leave ladders and garden tools in your garden; lock them away in your shed.
• Have an intruder alarm system installed by an approved contractor. Ensure a visible alarm box is attached to the outside of your home. Also consider fitting security lighting.
• Use door chains and spy holes to give you extra security if someone knocks on your door. Never be afraid to turn people away. If you have concerns about anyone who has come to your door call the police.
• Record the details of your property such as serial numbers for electronic goods on the Immobilise website (https://www.immobilise.com/)