A 47-year-old man has been sentenced to four years in prison following a string of burglaries in Basingstoke and Overton.
John Shrubshall, of Moriston Close, Reading, was arrested on June 2 after breaking into a home on Old Kempshott Lane. He stole a bag containing fishing equipment and was found in possession of screwdrivers, gloves, a snood, and a torch—items typically used for burglary.
Earlier, on March 11, Shrubshall had stolen cash and jewellery from a property on Waltham Road in Overton. CCTV footage also linked him to a stolen Audi taken from Basingstoke train station between March 8 and 9.
At Winchester Crown Court, Shrubshall pleaded guilty to multiple offences, including two burglary charges, going equipped for theft, and driving a vehicle without the owner’s consent.
Police Constable Iva Yotova of the Northern Area Crime Team commented:
“Burglary is one of the most intrusive crimes, with long-lasting effects on victims. No one should feel unsafe in their own home. We’re pleased to see Shrubshall face justice and hope this sends a clear message to other offenders.”
Shrubshall was sentenced on July 4 at Winchester Crown Court.
