Brutal Burglar Knocks Over 80-Year-Old Before Stealing Jewellery
Kyle Thatcher smashed into three homes in Staple and River in April 2022. During his third raid, he was caught red-handed by an elderly woman. The 30-year-old shoved her to the floor, causing a head injury, before swiping her jewellery.
Blood-Stained Duvet Leads Police Straight to Thatcher
- First burglary struck on April 7 in Staple. Owners returned to find a smashed window, emptied jewellery boxes, and a missing duvet.
- A dog walker soon found the stained duvet in Chalkpit Lane woodland and tipped off police.
- Tests revealed Thatcher’s DNA all over the blood-soaked duvet.
Raids Continue Before Final Violent Encounter
On April 15, a River resident returned home to forced-open doors and ransacked rooms. Jewellery, designer clothes, and cash were stolen.
The last heist happened on April 20. Thatcher was caught in a woman’s bedroom. When confronted, he violently shoved the octogenarian aside and fled with her belongings.
Thatcher Caught and Jailed After Phone Data Ties Him to Crimes
Arrested a week later on April 27 by the Chief Constable’s Crime Squad, Thatcher’s phone data placed him near all three burgled homes. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 32 months behind bars at Canterbury Crown Court on May 30, 2022.
“Burglary is an invasive and unsettling crime,” said Detective Sergeant Jay Robinson. “Thatcher left three households traumatised and violated. Luckily, his sloppy approach left plenty of evidence, leading to his conviction.”
Robinson added, “I wish the victims the best and thank everyone who helped with the investigation.”
