Brighton Burglar Busted After Brazen Theft Spree
Anthony Smith, 49, from Wellington Road, Brighton, has been jailed for burglary, car theft, and card fraud. Caught on CCTV entering a flat block in Hove, Smith used stolen keys to raid a victim’s vehicle and handsomely line his pockets.
Caught Red-Handed on CCTV
On 5 December 2022, Smith was spotted climbing the stairs of flats in Palmeira Square wearing a white fleece. Moments later, he came down clutching a large blue coat and a second coat in his hands.
One coat held a resident’s car keys, which Smith used to help himself to pricey toiletries, clothes, and £120 worth of alcohol drinks from the victim’s vehicle. The same coat contained the victim’s bank cards, which Smith then shamelessly used to splash cash at local shops and even a nearby McDonald’s.
CCTV footage shows Smith in the exact same outfit, using the stolen cards – a blatant act that sealed his fate.
Swift Arrest and Jail Sentence
Smith was arrested at his home on 9 December 2022. Police uncovered several stolen items, which were quickly returned to their rightful owner.
The thug faced charges including burglary, theft from a motor vehicle, and three counts of making false representation. At Lewes Crown Court on 27 January, Smith pleaded guilty and was slammed with a 2-year, 5-month prison sentence.
Strong Words from Police
“Anthony Smith’s sentence marks another success for our dedicated burglary investigation team – under Operation Greenfinch – in Brighton and Hove,” said Detective Sergeant Jo Benton.
“Smith is well-known to us and has caused harm in our communities for years. Prolific offenders like him are prime targets. This sentence sends a clear message: we have the resources, determination, and expertise to catch burglars and get justice for the victims.”
