A burglar who stole sentimental jewellery in the hope of “making a quick profit” has been jailed.

Patrick Moloney targeted homes in Tonbridge and Dartford between October 24 and November 2.

The 21-year-old travelled by car into Kent with criminal associates and broke into several houses while the residents were not home.

The addresses, which were situated in the outskirts of the towns, were ransacked and jewellery, mobile phones and computers were stolen.

Police forensically examined the scenes and CCTV footage in the area was reviewed.

Officers identified the vehicle that was being used by the gang and on November 2 it was recovered in Wickford, Essex.

Inside the vehicle, they found suspected stolen jewellery along with Moloney’s DNA.

Investigators then proved he had been in the vicinity of the burglaries when they were committed and he was arrested on December 6.

“Burglary is such an invasive crime and we will leave no stone unturned to track down those responsible...”

Moloney, of Old Maidstone Road, Sidcup, was later charged with eight burglaries.

He pleaded guilty to the indictments at Woolwich Crown Court and yesterday (June 27) he was sentenced to three years and four months’ imprisonment.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Josh Littley said: “Moloney and his partners-in-crime broke into houses without considering the impact this would have on the victims, thinking only of stealing portable property to make a quick profit.

“Much of the jewellery was of sentimental value and Moloney should be thoroughly ashamed of his actions.

“Burglary is such an invasive crime and we will leave no stone unturned to track down those responsible.

“In this case, some diligent investigative work ensured Moloney was promptly detained and evidence was recovered to guarantee he was brought to justice.”