A Maidstone burglar who bungled a job by cutting himself and leaving his DNA at a victim’s house has been jailed.

Lee Cuthbert went to a property in Linton Road and smashed a window and door to get inside.

He searched and caused considerable damage before stealing jewellery and a mobile phone.

Cuthbert cut himself and his DNA was later identified from bloodstains on furnishings.

The following week, on October 24, Cuthbert was caught on CCTV with an unidentified person watching a house in Windmill Hill, Harrietsham before it was burgled.

Again, a window was smashed to get inside and he made off with jewellery and bank cards

He was later identified by detectives after they viewed CCTV footage.

An officer patrolling Park Wood, Maidstone, a few days later, saw Cuthbert near Wallis Avenue and, knowing he was wanted for burglary, attempted to arrest him.

Cuthbert managed to escape but was detained two days later at his home in The Harbour, Sutton Valence.

He was later charged with two burglaries and escaping lawful custody.

The 41-year-old pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court and on Friday, he was sentenced to three years in prison.

Officer in the case, DC Billie-Louise Keane said: "This man is a prolific burglar who brazenly smashed his way into his victims’ properties during the hours of daylight.

"The occupiers returned to their houses to find considerable damage and mess, and treasured possessions stolen.

"It is only right Maidstone communities are protected from this criminal by a lengthy prison sentence."

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