ST NEOTS, CAMBRIDGESHIRE – A 40-year-old burglar who broke into a St Neots home over the holidays, stealing £700 worth of copper piping and causing £3,500 in property damage, has been jailed after police linked him to the crime through DNA evidence.
Break-In and Damage:
🔹 Date: Between 24 December and 1 January
🔹 Location: St Neots, Cambridgeshire
🔹 Suspect: Matthew Curtis, 40
🔹 Crimes Committed:
Smashed glass door to enter the home
Stole copper piping worth up to £700
Caused £1,000 in damage to the first property
Attempted to break into a neighboring home, causing an additional £2,500 in damage
Investigation & Arrest:
🔹 DNA Evidence: Police found Curtis’ DNA at the crime scene, linking him to the burglary.
🔹 Arrest & Charges: He was charged with burglary, attempted burglary, and criminal damage.
Police Statement:
DC Zoe Bramley emphasized the long-term impact of burglary on victims, saying:
“Burglary can have a long-lasting impact on victims, beyond the immediate inconvenience and financial loss.”
Sentencing:
Curtis has now been jailed, though specific sentencing details have not been disclosed.
Ongoing Crime Prevention Efforts:
Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to Cambridgeshire Police via 101 or online reporting services.
