Burglar Duo Landed Behind Bars in Portsmouth
Joshua Stedman, 32, and Craig James, 29, faced Portsmouth Crown Court on Thursday 23 February. Both admitted to a spate of crimes dating back to last year.
Crime Spree Covered Burglary and Fraud
- Stedman and James pleaded guilty to burgling a Beauchamp Avenue home on 31 August 2022.
- They also admitted four counts of fraud by false representation involving stolen bank cards.
- Stedman confessed to another burglary at Hardway Sailing Club on 18 August 2022.
- The pair stole £174 worth of booze from ASDA in Fareham on 30 August 2022.
Stedman’s Separate 2021 Break-Ins
Stedman, who has no fixed address, was also sentenced for three burglaries from April 2021:
- Breaking into a bungalow on The Avenue in Gosport in the early hours of 9 April.
- Forcing entry into St Mary’s Parish Church Centre that same morning, causing damage and stealing paperwork.
- Burglary at Wilmott Lane Depot on 12 April, stealing hand tools and around £200 cash after breaking into a nearby building.
Forensic evidence including shoe prints nailed Stedman to these offences. He admitted the charges at Portsmouth Crown Court last March and received 45 months behind bars at Thursday’s sentencing.
Sentencing and Police Statement
Craig James, formerly from Pine Road, Bournemouth, was sentenced to 29 months in prison.
“Stedman and James are prolific burglars and thieves who are now behind bars as a result of their crimes,” said Inspector Matt Wake.
“Our Operation Hawk team focuses on targeting burglars like these. We combine expert investigation with efforts to understand and rehabilitate offenders.”
“We hope this conviction reassures the community and encourages people to report crime and suspicious activity. Your tips help us keep your neighbourhood safe.”
If you notice suspicious behaviour, call 101 or report it online: Hampshire Police Crime Reporting.
