Prolific burglar stole jewellery while householder in church

A prolific burglar broke into a pensioner’s home and stole her jewellery while she was taking her elderly mother to a Remembrance Day church service.

William Price, who has been before the courts for more than 30 burglaries, threw a stone through his victim’s window before ransacking her bedroom, stealing rings and bracelets.

Sentencing at Cardiff Crown Court, Judge Jeremy Jenkins told the defendant: “You refuse to learn your lesson.”

The court heard the incident occurred around noon on November 12, in Peterston-super-Ely, Vale of Glamorgan.

Ian Kolvin, prosecuting, said: “The complainant left her home, with the alarm set, to take her elderly mother to a Remembrance Day service.”

A neighbour heard the alarm and reported seeing a car “zooming away”.

Prosecutors said the neighbour noted down the number-plate and called the victim, Kathryn Davies.

Jewellery, handbags, perfume and watches were taken. Prosecutors said the victim estimated the value of the stolen items to be around £2,500.

Police were able to trace the defendant through the number-plate recorded by her neighbour and he was arrested the next day.

Price, 51, from Heol Yr Orsaf in Pontyclun, admitted burglary, driving while disqualified and driving without insurance.

David Singh, defending, told the court Price grew up in care and had problems with addiction.

Price was jailed for three years and four months and he will be disqualified from driving for two years after his release.