Thanet’s police chief has promised to "identify any lessons that may be learnt" after a judge criticized police for allowing a persistent burglar bail - which freed him to commit more offences.

Benjamin White, a drug addict, had a 15-year history of burglaries and had been to prison seven times. When he was arrested for two Ramsgate burglaries he admitted eight more.

Judge Michael O’Sullivan told Canterbury Crown Court it was remarkable that White was then allowed bail by police. While on bail White went on to commit five more offences.

The judge jailed White, of Victoria Road, Westgate, for six years and said the Thanet police superintendent should be informed that such a thing should never happen again.

Supt Stuart Kehily said after the case: "As the newly appointed Superintendent for East Kent I am very pleased with the sentence, as a prolific burglar has been put behind bars for a very long time.

"I acknowledge the Judge's comments and the length of the sentence, reflecting the severity of the crime and the quality of the investigation."

He added: "I will consider the circumstances of this particular investigation to identify any lessons that may be learnt."

Full story in this week’s Thanet Extra.