Burglars Busted by Their Own Screwdrivers and Clever Police Work
Two bungling burglars got caught red-handed — and all thanks to their own tools and some sharp detective work involving forensics and interpreters.
Brother-in-Law Duo Nabbed in Addlestone Break-In
Gheorghe Serban, 33, from New Haw Road, Addlestone, scored 34 months behind bars plus a victim surcharge. His brother-in-law, Iulian Toma, 43, of Glebe Close, Crawley, Sussex, got a 21-month suspended sentence and an electronic curfew from 8pm to 5am.
Slip-Up with Screwdrivers and CCTV Snags Burglars
- On the evening of Friday, 15 January 2021, police were called to Hampshire Court, Addlestone, after reports of two suspicious men trying to break into a home.
- Officers raced to the scene, detained the suspects, and found two screwdrivers by their feet — tools the pair tried to deny owning.
- The burglars spun a tale about heading to buy cigarettes and visiting an old girlfriend but CCTV and house-to-house checks quickly exposed their lies, showing them trying to break into two houses.
- Forensic tests confirmed Serban had handled the screwdrivers, while officer bodycam footage, translated from Romanian, caught Serban asking Toma, “Did you throw that thing away?” referring to the burglary tools.
Convicted at Last, Despite Attempts to Skip Court
Both men faced charges of two attempted burglaries each plus going equipped for burglary. They pleaded guilty but then fled court appearances. Serban even fled overseas. Luckily, police tracked them down and brought them back for sentencing earlier this year — Serban was sentenced on 4 October, Toma on 16 November.
PC Daniel Bell, Northern Burglary Team, said: “This was a protracted investigation, made tougher because both men failed to appear in court. I thank the victims for their patience while we pursued these criminals. Burglary is a despicable crime, leaving victims feeling unsafe, especially as children were present during these offences. I hope this sentence sends a clear warning to any other crooks.”
Winter Burglary Warning: Protect Your Home Now
As dark winter nights approach, police expect a spike in burglaries. They urge homeowners to beef up security with simple, cost-effective steps:
- Use timer lights when you’re out to create the illusion someone’s home.
- Install a burglar alarm or panic alarm system for added protection.
- Secure sheds and side alleys with sturdy padlocks.
These measures don’t cost a fortune but can save you from becoming a victim — and help police catch offenders in the act.
