Two men who brazenly broke into a residence in Swindon and made off with thousands of pounds worth of precious gold jewellery have been handed jail sentences following their conviction.
Dwain Stratford, aged 33 and residing at Beech Avenue, Pinehurst, was sentenced to 18 months behind bars, while Joshua Steele, aged 28 and living at Bolingbroke Road, Moredon, received a 29-month prison term. Both men had pleaded guilty to charges of burglary.
The burglary took place on September 11 when Stratford and Steele forcibly entered a home in Stratton St Margaret. Inside the residence, they conducted an extensive search and subsequently fled with a substantial haul of valuable items. The stolen items included an array of jewellery, such as watches, bracelets, rings of sentimental value, and various coins.
Local law Police swiftly initiated an investigation into the burglary, which led to the identification of a Vauxhall Vivaro believed to have been involved in the crime. The vehicle was later located, and some of the stolen items were recovered. Subsequently, both Stratford and Steele were taken into custody and subsequently charged.
Detective Constable Jared Yalden, a member of the Burglary Team, commented on the case, stating, “The custodial sentences given in this case reflect the serious impact burglary can have on victims. Your home should be your safe place, but victims of burglary have this taken away from them, and the impact can be long-lasting—not just on the victims but for a whole community.”
He continued, “I am pleased these two individuals have been put behind bars. We are committed to targeting offenders like Steele and Stratford, and these sentences mean our streets are now safer.”
The successful conviction and sentencing of these individuals serve as a testament to the dedication of the Wiltshire Police in addressing criminal activities within the community and ensuring the safety and security of its residents.
