Burglar nabbed by vigilante neighbours in Maidstone lands three years behind bars!
Burglar caught red-handed after smashing into Maidstone home
Stephen Chambers, 35, of Hayle Road, Maidstone, tried his luck breaking into a Brunswick Street property on 16 June 2019. After failing to get in through the front door, he smashed a glass conservatory door at the back to gain entry.
Residents give chase and hold him until police arrive
Two alert men spotted Chambers acting suspiciously and found signs of forced entry in the garden. When they spotted him nearby shortly after, they didn’t hesitate – they chased him down and held him until police got there.
Caught on CCTV using paint roller to jimmy door
Police later uncovered CCTV footage showing Chambers tampering with the front door using bits of a paint roller through the letterbox. He was charged with burglary and remanded in custody.
‘Prolific offender’ handed three-year sentence
Chambers pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court on 16 July and was sentenced to three years in prison. Detective Constable Iain Joyce praised the community’s bravery:
“Chambers is a prolific and repeat offender who was faced with irrefutable evidence in court and had little choice but to plead guilty. It’s unusual for a burglar to break in so brazenly, and Chambers didn’t reckon on the vigilance of these residents. While we never encourage the public to put themselves in danger, I want to thank and commend those who helped us catch this offender.”
