Burglar Busted After Victim Chases Thieves and Gets Bike Back
Andrew Bywater and Michael Claydon’s early morning raid in Hawthorn Square, Seaham, hit a snag when the victim gave chase and snatched back a stolen bike.
Items Stolen, But Thieves Interrupted
- The duo broke into a home on May 6 and stole a handbag, iPhone, cash, tobacco, and a bike.
- As they made their getaway, the victim caught up and reclaimed the bike.
- Bywater and Claydon ran off on foot, tossing some loot back in a desperate bid to escape.
Fast Arrest and Tough Sentences
Police caught the pair two hours later, charging them with burglary. They faced Durham Crown Court on June 6.
- Bywater, 33, from Washington, got 27 months behind bars.
- Claydon, 33, from Darlington, was handed three years in prison.
“We fully understand the emotional impact burglaries can have on victims and the wider effect it can have on nearby residents,” said A/Detective Inspector Victoria Ford-Stubbs of Seaham CID.
“We will act quickly and forcefully to bring offenders like Bywater and Claydon to justice who believe they can steal from hardworking people.”
