Men jailed as part of police crackdown on burglars and thieves

Christopher Howell (36), who broke into two businesses, and Ashley Godber (38), who tried to break into several cars, are both behind bars after an operation led by Rotherham CID.

Howell, of no fixed abode, used a brick to smash a window of the Wharncliffe Restaurant in Wharncliffe Street in the early hours of June 13.

While inside, he stole six bottles of wine and a bin, before fleeing the scene through a broken window.

Howell struck again less than two hours later, as he smashed the window of Creative Hair Salon in Bridgegate. He grabbed a variety of hair products before leaving.

Officers traced Howell after a forensic investigation linked him to both incidents.

He initially denied the offences but later admitted charges of non-dwelling burglary and was jailed for 24 weeks at Sheffield Magistrates' Court last Friday.

Godber (38) (pictured, above), who police described as a prolific thief, targeted vehicles across the borough to steal valuable items left inside.

He admitted four counts of vehicle theft after he was spotted breaking into several vehicles in the Bramley and Wickersley areas.

Officers identified Godber after members of the public reported a man trying the door handles of cars to check if they were locked.

Godber, of no fixed abode, was jailed for ten months on Tuesday at Barnsley Magistrates' Court.

Det Insp Lee Wilson said: "Burglary can have a devastating impact on people's lives and we will do everything we can to bring those responsible to justice.

"These offenders demonstrated a clear lack of regard for the welfare of their victims, who were left understandably shaken by the ordeal.

"Tackling serious and acquisitive crime is a priority for detectives across the county.

"We work with specially trained officers to investigate offences and bring those responsible before the courts.

"Results like this are made possible by the continued support we receive from the public.

"I would urge anyone who witnesses criminal behaviour to come forward to report it."

If you would like to report a crime but wish to stay anonymous, you can contact Crimestoppers online via their website or by calling 0800 555 111.