West Lindsey: Prolific burglar is jailed for five years

Simon Finlay targeted properties in Nettleham and Cherry Willingham before he was eventually brought to justice.

Andrew Vout, prosecuting, said Finlay burgled two homes in Nettleham on the same night in July.

He made off with bank cards, documents, cash and mobile phones after entering a property in Dalderby Crescent in the village while the occupants were asleep.

Finlay then broke into a nearby home in Kingsway, Nettleham, stealing a set of car keys.

The occupants woke up to the sound of their Honda Jazz car being revved up.

Finlay, in his efforts to get away, then crashed into the garden wall of the property before driving away.

The car was later found burned out.

Three days after the incidents Finlay broke into the Golden Cherry Chinese takeaway in Cherry Willingham making off with the safe containing £600 cash together with bottles of brandy and a charity box.

Mr Vout said: “Significant mess was made in the kitchen.”

“Oil was poured all over the floor.”

“Fridges were left open and food was taken out and thrown around.”

Finlay then attempted to break into the Wishing Well pub in the village but cut his hand after smashing a window and made off without stealing anything.

He was linked to the raid after his blood was found at the scene.

Finlay, 32, of no fixed address, admitted three burglaries and an attempted burglary as a result of the incidents in July.

He also admitted further charges of handling stolen goods and aggravated vehicle taking and asked for a further 11 offences to be taken into consideration including 10 burglaries.

David Eager, defending, said that Finlay’s offending was linked to his use of drugs but is now looking to change his ways.

He said: “He has so far lived a life of crime.”

“He has come to the realisation that this is no lifestyle for him to lead.”

The judge also banned Finlay from driving for two years.