Two men, both named Bernie McDonagh, were arrested and sentenced after a 10-day crime spree that saw them steal over $10,000 worth of jewelry, watches, and electronics in Warwickshire, England.
The 56-year-old and 35-year-old were caught after police traced their movements, realizing the pair had driven the same car to each crime scene. This carelessness led to their arrest, during which police discovered the strange coincidence of their identical names.
The duo’s crime spree included burglaries on August 6 and 10, along with an attempted break-in on August 1. Among the stolen items were a 55-inch TV, six high-value watches, and a necklace, all worth over $4,000. They also took a jewelry box and pillowcase from another home, and the 56-year-old McDonagh reportedly stole more than $7,000 worth of watches and cash from a third property.
Detective Inspector Alan Hands criticized the McDonaghs’ disregard for law, saying they believed they could steal freely without facing consequences. “It has been a pleasure to bring this little piece of reality to them,” he added.
The 56-year-old was sentenced to over four years in prison, fined, and had his driving license suspended for multiple charges, while the 35-year-old received a two-year sentence and a fine.