Notorious Tunbridge Wells Burglar Locked Up
A serial burglar who terrorised Tunbridge Wells businesses under cover of night has finally been caught and jailed.
David Baker, 39, a drifter with no fixed address, hit four local properties over just three months in 2019.
Raid After Raid: From Church to Café
- Between 18-21 August, Baker broke into a church on St Luke’s Road, making off with a haul of cash.
- On the night of 5-6 September, he slipped through a café window at Langton Green recreation ground, snatching food, drinks, two tablets and a mobile phone after ransacking the place.
- His botched attempt at a veterinary centre in Eridge Road on 7 September triggered an alarm – forcing him to flee empty-handed.
DNA and CCTV Lead Police to Baker
Kent Police detectives identified Baker from CCTV footage and his DNA left at the church break-in. He was arrested on 18 September, caught red-handed with a stash of MDMA.
Charged with three burglaries and Class A drug possession, he didn’t stop there. On 9 October, Baker struck again – targeting a day nursery in Springfield Road, Southborough, stealing a laptop, sweets and plants. He was snapped up the same day and hit with additional charges.
Justice Served: Jail Time for The Burglar
Baker pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court and was slammed with a 14-month prison sentence on 12 May 2020.
“This burglar targeted local businesses, causing damage and stealing anything of value he could find inside,” said Chief Inspector Pete Steenhuis, District Commander for Tunbridge Wells.
“The owners and staff work hard to deliver a service to local people and criminals like Baker have an impact on their ability to continue operating.”
“My investigators remain determined to track down prolific offenders to ensure our communities remain protected.”
