by Angela Cole

acole@thekmgroup.co.uk

A man who stole from a couple in their 80s has been jailed for three years.

Twenty-four-year-old Michael Jonathon Smith, previously from Pennington Road, Tunbridge Wells, had climbed through the window of the elderly couple's home in Ramslye Road, Tunbridge Wells, on Friday, December 7, stealing jewellery worth between £1,500 and £2,000.

At Maidstone Crown Court yesterday (Wednesday), Smith admitted committing nine other burglaries across Tunbridge Wells between October and December 2012.

Identified by fingerprints at the scene, Smith was arrested on Tuesday, January 8, and later charged. The stolen jewellery – including a wedding and engagement rings - was never recovered.

Investigating officer, DC Neil Buckle said: “In interview Smith showed remorse for the fear and distress he had caused the victims but it was too late, and the damage had been done.

"The jewellery he stole had huge sentimental value to the victims and it is unlikely they will get it back, as Smith indicated he had sold it. Smith is one of three prolific burglars in the Tunbridge Wells area that we have a secured substantial prison sentences against recently and we will continue to proactively target burglars and ensure that they too are put behind bars.”