Bungling Burglars Busted by Their Own Screwdrivers
Two hapless burglars were caught red-handed thanks to forensic experts and sharp police work – led by savvy interpreters cracking the code.
Brothers-in-Law Nabbed After Foiled Break-In
Gheorghe Serban, 33, from New Haw Road, Addlestone, got slammed with a 34-month jail sentence plus a victim surcharge. His brother-in-law, 43-year-old Iulian Toma from Crawley, Sussex, dodged immediate jail but faces 21 months suspended, with a strict electronic curfew from 8pm to 5am.
Night-Time Nonsense: Screwdriver Slip-Up in Addlestone
The drama began at 9.49pm on Friday, 15 January 2021, when officers raced to Hampshire Court in Addlestone after reports of two dodgy blokes trying to break into a house. Cops detained the pair and found two screwdrivers at their feet. The pair claimed they were simply heading to the shops for cigarettes and that Serban was popping in to see an old flame.
But CCTV and door-to-door inquiries told a different story – the duo were caught on camera attempting to burgle two local homes.
Forensics and Footage Seal the Deal
Forensic tests showed the screwdrivers were definitely handled by Serban and probably by Toma. Bodycam footage was translated from Romanian and revealed Serban asking Toma, “Did you throw that thing away?” – clearly referencing the incriminating screwdrivers.
Both men faced charges of attempted burglary and having burglary tools. They admitted guilt but skipped court, with Serban even fleeing the country. Persistent officers tracked them down and brought them back to face justice. Serban was sentenced on 4 October, and Toma on 16 November.
PC Daniel Bell, Northern Burglary Team, said: “This was a lengthy investigation made tougher by both men skipping court. I thank the victims for their patience. burglary is a vile crime, especially as the victims were at home with their children. I hope these sentences deter any other would-be burglars.”
Winter Warning: Keep Your Home Safe
With winter’s long nights looming, burglaries tend to spike. Protect yourself by considering these simple security tips:
- Use timer-controlled lighting when you’re out.
- Install burglar or panic alarms.
- Secure sheds and side alleys with sturdy padlocks.
These measures are often affordable and can stop you from becoming a victim – and help police catch offenders.
