Eastwood man caged for string of offences

Raymond Kent Capriani (49), of Fitzwilliam Road, Eastwood, appeared before Sheffield Crown Court on Thursday, October 12, to receive his sentence after pleading guilty of two counts of burglary, one count of attempted burglary, one count of fraud, a public order offence and possession of a bladed article.

The offences were committed in July, starting on Sunday, July 9, when Capriani broke into a house in Collegiate Crescent, Sheffield, stealing a number of valuable items of jewellery and bankcards.

The victim noticed a discarded shopping bag on her garden steps, which was passed to police for forensic analysis. A blood-stained jumper inside the bag tied Capriani to the crime.

When cancelling her bankcards, the victim was made aware of several fraudulent transactions made by Capriani in the hours after the burglary.

He struck again on Sunday, July 22, targeting a house in High Street, Swallownest, taking bankcards which were used shortly afterwards in a number of contactless payments.

CCTV footage recovered from the locations where the bankcards were used incriminated Capriani.

On Tuesday, July 25, Capriani threatened a member of staff at the Greasbrough walk-in centre in Rotherham with a knife and police were called.

He was found nearby and searched by officers where he was found to be in possession of a bladed article and arrested.

Acting Det Insp Aneela Khalil-Khan, from Rotherham, said: “This is a positive court result for the victims, members of the public and for officers from both Rotherham and Sheffield, who have worked alongside one another to put this prolific offender behind bars.

“His criminal behaviour and intent was clear, by taking bankcards for his own financial gain as well as sentimental items from the victims.

“Thanks to the thorough investigation and quick thinking of our officers, we were able to stop Capriani’s criminal spree and he is now in prison.

“I hope the victims affected by his actions are pleased he has been brought to justice.”