Kent Burglar Busted and Jailed for Series of Crimes
Scott Barham, 38, from Becket Avenue in Canterbury, has been locked up for four years after pleading guilty to multiple burglaries, attempted burglary, and fraud. The Kent Crime Squad’s investigation led to his dramatic downfall at Canterbury Crown Court on 23 January 2024.
DNA Evidence Cracks Attempted Break-In
Barham was caught thanks to DNA linking him to an attempted break-in on 7 October 2023 in Conyer, near Sittingbourne. The thug smashed a window but fled empty-handed when a dog started barking loud and clear.
Crime Spree Includes Car Theft and Shop Raid
On 28 October, Barham and two accomplices stole a car from Canterbury’s Forty Acres area. Hours later, they rammed a newsagent on St Stephen’s Road, making off with a large stash of cigarette packets.
Detectives tracked the stolen car to a petrol station on the A299, where CCTV captured Barham stepping out of the vehicle loud and clear.
Final Straw – House Burglary and Fraud
Barham’s last recorded offence was a house break-in in Canterbury on 14 November. The homeowner returned to find cash and a bank card missing. The stolen card was later used at a local shop. Keen-eyed police officers identified Barham on CCTV and arrested him the next day.
Detective Constable Andrew Palmer said: “Burglaries like those committed by Scott Barham have a huge impact on victims and businesses. We are determined to track down repeat offenders like him and bring them to justice.”
With Barham now behind bars, Canterbury residents can breathe a little easier knowing he’s off the streets for the foreseeable future.
