A burglar trapped by his DNA went onto confess to committing numerous other break-ins and thefts in the Medway area, a court heard.

Christopher Boxall was jailed for four years after admitting one burglary and handling stolen goods and asking for 90 other offences to be taken into consideration.

A judge expressed surprise that such a “prolific” burglar should be careless enough to be trapped by his DNA at the scene of one of his crimes.

Thomas Allen, defending, said the reason was the 27-year-old’s addiction to hard drugs.

Judge James O’Mahony said each of the burglaries would have caused misery to victims.

“I hope you feel ashamed about that. There must be a significant sentence if I am to take into account that very considerable catalogue of offences.”

Det Ch Insp Jon Sutton welcomed the verdict saying it showed the commitment of Kent Police to tackling and reducing burglary in Medway.

He said:"We were able to put the best evidence forward to the court resulting in Boxall receiving a custodial sentence.

"Burglary is a distressing crime which makes people feel like their privacy has been violated.

"Since April there has been a 21 per cent reduction in burglary and this equates to around three burglaries being reported a day.

"I still think this is three too many, but a good reduction in crime nonetheless.

"We are beginning to win the war against burglary, more people are being put behind bars and crime is reducing.

"By working together I am confident we can make Medway a no-go zone for these criminals and build stronger, safer communities."