Thief who burgled 90-year-old man’s home jailed for three years
Breaking In Through Insecure Window
Stuart Hitchiner, 47, homeless, was caught red-handed burgling a 90-year-old man’s home overnight on 17 December 2020. Hitchiner admitted the crime at a previous hearing. Yesterday, 3 February, he was sentenced to three years behind bars at Southampton Crown Court.
The court heard that Hitchiner sneaked in through a window left ajar at the back of the property. The window was slightly open to allow a charging cable for the victim’s mobility scooter. Inside a utility room, Hitchiner smashed another window to gain access to the main house.
Victim Interrupted, Heartbreaking Impact
The victim woke to use the bathroom and startled Hitchiner, who then grabbed a mobile phone, iPad, passport, Christmas cards, and a gift set with three small bottles of port before fleeing through the front door.
After leaving the bathroom, the 90-year-old noticed a light downstairs. He found broken glass on the floor and realised he had been burgled. He immediately called the police.
Forensics Nail the Burglar
Forensic tests uncovered Hitchiner’s blood at the scene, leading to his arrest. At sentencing, the victim’s step-daughter shared the devastating emotional toll on the elderly man and the whole family.
“Just hearing him tell me of his fear broke my heart,” she said. “I can’t even imagine how he felt and what was going through his mind. The thought of him being so frightened tears the whole family apart.”
“Due to the pandemic, my stepfather had been isolating. The only face-to-face visits were from me or my sister bringing shopping or helping with chores.”
“The stolen items weren’t valuable, but the phone and iPad were his lifeline to seeing daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in South Africa and the UK.”
“I hope that when Mr Hitchiner closes his eyes at night, he feels the pain, fear, and heartbreak he caused this gentleman and his family.”
Police Condemn Crime, Promise Justice
Detective Constable Daniel Rainscourt, from Operation Hawk, slammed Hitchiner’s “despicable” crime.
“Residential burglaries are monstrous. The distress caused to victims is immeasurable. Hitchiner showed zero regard for this elderly man who should have felt safe in his own home.”
“I welcome this sentence and hope it reassures communities that we take these offences seriously. We follow every lead to catch offenders and bring them to justice.”
