A MAN who broke into the home of an elderly victim and stole jewellery has been jailed for almost two and a half years.

Bournemouth Crown Court heard how Justin Guy, 40, from Bournemouth, broke into the premises along Wollaton Road in Ferndown sometime between 15 and 16 December last year.

Forensic evidence obtained from the scene led to his arrest by the Dorset Police Priority Crime Team days later.

Guy pleaded guilty to the offence and was sentenced to 876 days’ imprisonment.

He was also ordered to pay £560 compensation to the victim – money seized from him at the time of his arrest – after the police made an application to the judge.

Detective Constable Mark Colborne, of Dorset Police Priority Crime Team, said: “This was a very callous crime. The offender stole items of huge sentimental value which we have not been able to recover.

“I am pleased that the judge accepted our application and ordered that Guy pay his money to the victim. This illustrates that police will continue to work closely with the Crown Prosecution Service to take money from offenders to reimburse victims where appropriate.

“This sentence reflects the seriousness of the crime and demonstrates that these offences will not be tolerated by the courts and the police.

“Dorset Police Priority Crime Team will continue to target dwelling burglaries and work tirelessly to bring those offenders to justice.”