Distraction burglar jailed for four years (From Watford Observer)

Distraction burglar jailed for four years

3:19pm Tuesday 21st February 2012 in News By Mike Wright

A distraction burglar has been sentenced to four years in jail for tricking a Bricket Wood resident before stealing the victim's car.

Christopher Wickens, 32 and of no fixed abode, conned his victim in June by telling them that he needed to borrow a piece of paper to write a note on.

Whilst the victim was distracted Wickens took various items and cash and he made off with the victim’s Citroen Saxo.

Wickens was charged with distraction burglary and theft of motor vehicle in August.

Following a trial at Luton Crown Court, which started on February 8, he was found guilty last week.

He was sentenced to four and a half years in prison.

Detective Constable Jill Green from Operation Manhunt said: "I’d like to thank members of the public in the area who were vigilant and vital in securing this conviction, particularly a local postman and a neighbour of the victim both of whom were able to give information to the police which greatly assisted in the investigation and conviction.

"This just highlights the importance of people looking out for their neighbours and making note of people acting suspiciously around the houses of the older people in the community.

"The judge clearly saw the seriousness of this incident and gave Wickens a long sentence for the crime."