A father and son who broke into garages and parked cars have been sent to prison after tracking software led police to the pair.

Arunas Simkus, 45 and Marius Simkus, 25, were arrested last year after officers found the men’s own vehicles crammed with stolen items.

They were caught after a victim used the Find my iPad app to track them to a caravan park in Valley Road, Gravesend, on November 10.

Following a search of the caravan as well as a Mercedes Sprinter van both men were arrested.

Stolen computer tablets, car parts and gardening tools linked to two burglaries in Groombridge and Hawkhurst were recovered, along with items linked to a further four offences in Sussex were discovered.

Despite the evidence, the pair denied that they were to blame, with one claiming one of the crimes had taken place while he was asleep. It was also claimed a friend sold them the stolen items.

The father and son, formerly of Thistle Road, Gravesend, both appeared at Maidstone Crown Court charged with burglary, conspiracy to commit burglary and theft from a motor vehicle.

Marius Simkus had previously denied all charges, but following a trial was found guilty by a jury of two counts of theft, conspiracy to commit burglary, conspiracy to steal and burglary. He was sentenced to three years imprisonment.

Arunas Simkus had previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit burglary and three thefts. He was jailed for two-and-a-half years.

They were sentenced to three years imprisonment.

Lead investigator Sgt Dave Higham, from Kent Police, said: "This investigation shows, once again, the value of installing tracking software on the likes of tablets and mobile phones.

"The victim lead us directly to Arunas and Marius Simkus.

"These two men were responsible for a crime spree, during which they stole almost anything they could get their hands on.

"In one incident they even stole a pushchair and travel cot from a vehicle. They are now paying the price for their crimes and what is also pleasing is that we have been able to recover most of the items which were stolen."