A “callous” burglar has been jailed after bungling three break-ins and leaving traces of his DNA at the scene of his crimes.

Lorenc Stefanaj targeted homes when residents were absent and “ruthlessly” targeted jewellery, often of sentimental value.

He first gained unlawful entry to a property in Wrotham Road, Meopham on December 29 last year after smashing a window.

The 31-year-old then stole jewellery of sentimental value before leaving the scene. The police were alerted and later recovered DNA from Stefanaj on a piece of broken glass.

The same offender targeted a property in Larks Field, Longfield, between January 3 and January 10, this year.

He had entered the premises by forcing open a window but left empty-handed.

But, a subsequent forensic examination at the scene located blood at the point of entry which was later found to have Stefanaj’s DNA.

Between February 2 and 4, the offender went on to target a house in Banstead, Surrey and gained entry through a window before stealing jewellery – his DNA was once again identified.

CCTV images from one of the crime scene notified other forces that Stefanaj was wanted.

On April 22, he was arrested in London after discarding a rucksack containing two screwdrivers whilst fleeing from patrols.

Stefanaj, of Havelock Road, in Luton, Bedfordshire, was charged with three burglaries and remanded in custody.

He pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court and on Wednesday, October 16, Stefanaj was sentenced to one year and six months’ imprisonment.

This man is a callous criminal and fully deserves his time in prison

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Dan Bister, said: “Stefanaj burgled properties where the residents were absent and ruthlessly targeted jewellery.

“The loss of these sentimental items to the victims had a significant impact on them and he should be thoroughly ashamed of his actions.

“He thought only of making a quick profit while selling people’s irreplaceable items. This man is a callous criminal and fully deserves his time in prison.”