A violent burglar who threatened homeowners with a hammer during a terrifying daytime raid has been jailed for more than nine years.
Chaivaz Stapleton, 29, of Station Road, New Barnet, was sentenced to nine years and one month at Swindon Crown Court on Friday (May 2). He had earlier pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary after targeting a property in Okebourne Park, Liden, Swindon.
The victims were inside the house when Stapleton and three unidentified accomplices stormed in at around 11.50am on September 13 last year. Armed with a hammer, the gang threatened the terrified occupants before ransacking the home and stealing a large haul of jewellery.
Investigators linked a black Vauxhall Astra used in the crime to Stapleton, leading to his arrest during a police raid in London on October 15.
Although Stapleton is now behind bars, Wiltshire Police say the hunt continues for his three accomplices, and have urged anyone with information to come forward.
Detective Constable Jared Yalden, from the Serious Organised Crime Unit, said:
“This was a targeted and invasive attack. Burglaries like this leave a lasting emotional scar on victims. We are committed to tracking down the others responsible.”
Fighting burglary remains one of Wiltshire Police’s top three priorities.
The investigation is ongoing.
