Burglar warns his victims to keep their doors locked
A burglar was caught in the hallway of his neighbour’s Scarborough home – before telling them to lock their door in future.
Paul Lud ford, of Al berm ar le Crescent, pleaded guilty to burglary at York Crown Court on Friday June 8.
On Sunday May 6 at 10.15pm, Ludford was found standing in the hallway of a neighbour’s property in Albermarle Crescent.
When confronted by the homeowners and asked to leave the property, the 47-year-old told them that he had entered the property by an unlocked rear door and advised them to ensure their door is locked in future.
Shaken by finding a stranger in their property, it was only later the victims realised a mobile phone and charger had been removed.
The victims were able to pass an accurate description of Ludford to police, which enabled officers to identify, locate and arrest him on suspicion of burglary. When officers carried out a search of Ludford’s property, the stolen items were recovered.
Detective Constable David Adams, of Scarborough and Ryedale Serious Crime Team, welcomes the sentence handed to Ludford for the “abhorrent crime”.
He added: “To walk uninvited into someone’s home, steal their property and then have the audacity to remonstrate with them about leaving a door insecure, gives an idea of the complete disregard Ludford has towards his victims.”