Tracking data stored on a car driven by a Tunbridge Wells burglar has led to him being jailed for more than three years.

Gary Bentley was responsible for a crime spree last year, which came to an end after his Alfa Romeo provided crucial evidence.

The 42-year-old broke into a house in Sandown Park on May 20, where, after trashing the place, he made off with cash and jewellery.

Four days later, he drove his car to a property in Hastings Road, Pembury and forced open a door, stealing items including a bank card, watch, jewellery and metal tankards.

He used the bank card to buy tobacco, food and fuel at a number of local shops, restaurants and petrol stations.

Bentley carried out a further break-in at an address in Chalklet Lane, Pembury on May 28, where he took cash and four watches.

Detectives identified Bentley as the culprit from footage recorded on a mobile phone belonging to a witness, and he was arrested on May 30.

Examination of his car’s tracker system located it close to each of the break-ins, on the days they were committed.

Bentley, of Elmhurst Avenue, Pembury was charged with three burglaries and four counts of fraud and after pleading guilty at Maidstone Crown Court, he was jailed for three-and-a-half years.

Tunbridge Wells District Commander, Ch Ins Peter Steenhuis said: "Bentley is a prolific and brazen offender, who entered people’s homes in broad daylight to steal whatever he could find.

"These type of crimes are quite simply devastating for victims, who arrive home to find their properties turned upside-down.

"Whilst Bentley has shown little, if any remorse for his actions, it is at least reassuring that a prison sentence will now protect residents of Tunbridge Wells from his criminal activities."

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