Burglar Nabbed After Dawn Drama in Sittingbourne Garden
A bold Sittingbourne homeowner caught a burglar red-handed in his garden shed — and the crook has now been locked up.
Hero Homeowner Holds Off Thieves
At around 4.50am on 10 September 2019, a Miller Close resident spotted a light flickering in his wooden cabin. Sensing trouble, he crept over and found David Bignall and another man inside.
The homeowner tried to trap them by holding the cabin doors shut, but they forced their way out and fled down a nearby alley.
Struggle and Saviour Neighbours
The victim chased after Bignall, who was trying to climb a fence into a neighbour’s garden. A fight broke out, with Bignall wielding a screwdriver and threatening the homeowner.
Neighbours, roused by the ruckus, rushed to help and restrained Bignall until police arrived.
Burglar Gets Nearly Three Years Behind Bars
Bignall, 38, of Larkfield Avenue, was arrested and charged with burglary, possession of burglary tools, and assault. He pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court.
On 12 March 2020, he was sentenced to two years and nine months in prison.
“This burglar did not hesitate to use violence in an attempt to escape. It is to the victim’s credit that he bravely held on until police arrived,” said Detective Constable Nicola Lincoln. “I also want to commend the neighbours who came to his aid. This sentence helps keep Sittingbourne residents safe.”
