Paul Debenham, a 30-year-old serial burglar with a history of targeting elderly individuals in Orpington, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison. The verdict was delivered at Croydon Crown Court on Monday (April 29), marking the culmination of a series of aggravated burglaries and other related offences.
Debenham’s crime spree, marked by its brazenness and violence, sent shockwaves through the community. The most recent incidents occurred last year, when Debenham, armed with a handgun and a hammer, terrorised residents in their own homes.
The first incident took place on October 31 on Spur Road. Debenham forcibly entered a residence occupied by a 78-year-old man and a 76-year-old woman. He brandished a handgun, threatened the man, and callously pushed the woman to the ground before making off with their car.
Just two days later, on November 2, Debenham struck again, this time on Blenheim Road. Using a brick to smash a glass panel, he gained entry into the home of a 96-year-old woman. Once inside, he menaced her with a hammer, demanding valuables including car keys and jewellery.
Debenham’s capture came through astute detective work coupled with forensic evidence. A box, left at the scene of the Spur Road incident, contained a bottle of alcohol with his fingerprints, leading to his identification and subsequent arrest.
Commenting on the case, Investigating Officer PC Rob Melton emphasised the collaborative effort that led to Debenham’s apprehension. Debenham was a ruthless criminal who committed crime to fund his lifestyle,” stated PC Melton. “He showed no remorse for the long-lasting impact these offences would have on his victims.”
Debenham’s sentencing encompassed a litany of charges, including two aggravated burglaries, four commercial burglaries, seven residential burglaries, theft of a motor vehicle, and vehicle interference.
As the community breathes a collective sigh of relief at his incarceration, the sentence serves as a stark reminder of the gravity of such despicable crimes. With Debenham behind bars, there’s hope for some measure of closure and safety for the affected residents.
