Burglar who targeted five Widnes homes is jailed

A BURGLAR who admitted a spate of offences in Widnes has been jailed.

John Walker, from Garston, was sentenced to six years and nine months at Liverpool Crown Court on Friday.

The 25-year-old admitted five counts of burglary, two counts of theft from a person and handling stolen goods at an earlier hearing.

Walker broke into an address on Ash Lane, Widnes, at around 12.40am on Monday, August 1 last year.

Once inside he stole the victim’s handbag and car keys, before fleeing the scene in the occupant’s Audi S3.

Walker was subsequently involved in a collision along Halebank Road causing significant damage to a house before making off on foot.

After forensically examining the vehicle, officers were able to gain vital DNA linking Walker to the offence and a previous burglary in the area.

Walker was subsequently arrested on 15 August 15, charged and recalled to prison for breaching his license.

He was also sentenced to three other burglaries in Widnes on Ash Lane, Lakeside Close and Halebank Road where he stole a mobile phone and a quantity of cash from the properties.

Detective constable Joseph McNally said: “Walker had no regards for the victims when he entered their homes and stole from them.

“People should feel safe in their homes and knowing that someone entered your house while you were present can have a profound effect. “These types of crime can have the biggest impact on victims, and Walker’s actions have left them angry and violated.

“I hope this conviction sends a clear message to residents, that burglary will not be tolerated in Widnes and we will bring those intent on causing misery in our communities to justice.”