Burglar jailed after five-day crime spree

Stuart Daniel Pearson (40), formerly of Conisbrough, was found guilty of one count of burglary, one count of vehicle theft and one count of careless driving when he appeared at Sheffield Crown Court on Wednesday, June 21.

He also admitted four counts of fraud, one count of shoplifting and one count of driving while disqualified.

Pearson was jailed for three years and eight weeks.

The court heard that between Sunday, December 18, and Thursday, December 22 last year Pearson committed a string of offences beginning with a burglary at a property in Mexborough where he stole a vehicle, a handbag and wallet containing cards and cash.

The cards were used to make fraudulent transactions at a number of locations across Mexborough and Rotherham.

On Tuesday, December 20, Pearson was driving the stolen car when he was involved in a collision in Wath Road, Mexborough.

The other driver asked to exchange details at which point Pearson became evasive, got into the car and left the scene, driving at the other person as he did so.

The matter was reported to police and a description taken from the witness.

Pearson’s crime spree came to an end on Thursday, December 22, when a security guard at a supermarket in Doncaster saw him stealing Christmas crackers and wrapping paper. He was detained by the guard and police were called.

Police noticed that his clothing matched those of an individual caught on CCTV from the locations where the stolen cards had been used, as well as fitting the description taken from the witness at the collision.

Investigating officer PC Rob Scarrow said: “I am pleased that Pearson is behind bars for his crimes.

“His short-lived spree caused upset and distress to his victims. I hope they are now reassured that he has received a custodial sentence.”