A bungling burglar who broke into a car in County Durham was apprehended by police after he left his mobile phone on the seat.
About £15 was taken from the vehicle but Hayden Fenwick Blades' phone – which had messages from his probation officer trying to get in touch with him on it – was left behind. The left phone meant Blades was arrested by officers shortly afterwards.
Hayden Fenwick Blades appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court on April 27 where he pleaded guilty to burglary and theft from motor vehicle following the incidents in the Murton area on April 19. He previously denied the offences during a police interview but pleaded guilty in court.
Read more: Four teens arrested after scooter and shopping trolley used to try smash into Sunderland B&M store
The 25-year-old, of Penryn Avenue, Murton, was sentenced to a six months community order in line with drugs rehabilitation order by magistrates.
Seaham Neighbourhood Inspector Jo Eales said: "Blades is a prolific offender but thankfully not the brightest. We would like to thank the community for their continued intelligence and will continue to put him in front of the courts at every opportunity."
