TWO Poole men who left “a trail of misery” for their victims have been imprisoned for a total of nearly five years for burglary.

John Swanson, 31, and Michael Johnson, 42, admitted raiding two properties in the Blandford area on the same day in May.

A court heard that they first targeted a house in Charlton Marshall, forcing the front door open and stealing a watch.

Prosecutor Sadie Rizzo said they then forced open a sash window of a house in Shroton and stole various items of silver and jewellery.

They were arrested at 12.10pm that day after officers discovered the pair in possession of stolen silverware and jewellery.

Both men appeared at Bournemouth Crown Court on Wednesday, May 14, where they pleaded guilty to the two burglaries.

On Thursday, June 5, they returned to the court to be sentenced. Swanson was given a three year jail term and Johnson was sent to prison for one year and eight months. He was also sentenced to a further four months’ imprisonment for other offences, which were also dealt with on the same day.

Senior Investigating Officer Geoff Kerley, of Weymouth CID, said: “Burglary is a despicable crime and extremely traumatic and distressful to the victims.

“These two offenders travelled to the Blandford area with intent to break into houses. They have shown a total disregard for other people’s property and left a trail of misery for the victims.

“I am pleased that we were able to recover the majority of the stolen property, some of which was of great sentimental value. I welcome the sentences and hope that they act as a deterrent to other offenders.”