Balaclava Bandit Busted After Security Light Sparks Midnight Drama
A local Worthing Road resident’s security light went off at 2:30am on August 10 – and that was all it took to tip off police.
Masked Man Spooked, Ditches Stolen Goods
The suspect, wearing a balaclava, fled when confronted but PC Jamie Jackson from Surrey and Sussex Police’s Dog Unit quickly caught up with him nearby. The officer spotted the man toss items into a bush.
PC Jackson said, “On arrival I saw a man matching the description heading my way. When he spotted my police vehicle, he threw something into the shrubs. It was small enough to fit into a hand.”
Police Dog Phantom Sniffs Out Evidence
With the help of police dog Phantom, trained to detect recent human scent, officers searched the shrub line. Phantom found two bank cards not in the suspect’s name.
“One of Phantom’s skills is finding items with recent human scent on. After a short search, Phantom indicated he’d found two bank cards.” – PC Jamie Jackson
Local Man Arrested Over Multiple Thefts
The 42-year-old suspect was found carrying loose change and a black facemask. He was arrested for theft and breaching a court order banning him from driveways and possessing bank cards. He is also suspected of several vehicle burglaries in the area.
The man has since been released under investigation as police continue their inquiries.
