A career burglar who wickedly targeted an elderly and vulnerable woman is now behind bars thanks to an ongoing detective-led operation targeting Doncaster’s most prolific offenders. Operation Castle, introduced last year to combat Doncaster’s high burglary rates, has already made a significant impact. The city recorded its lowest number of burglaries in the past five years, with a 21% reduction in reports of burglary in 2023 compared to 2022.

Steven Reynolds, known for targeting vulnerable individuals, would appeal to their good nature to gain access to their homes. After being released from prison in August 2023, Reynolds resumed his criminal activities. In December 2023, he targeted an elderly woman in Hexthorpe. Under the guise of clearing snow from her path, Reynolds asked to wash his hands inside her house and requested a drink. While her back was turned, he stole her purse and £20 in cash before fleeing the scene.

Forensics teams swiftly collected swabs from the glass Reynolds had used, providing a positive DNA match. Working alongside Doncaster’s Integrated Offender Management (IOM) Team, which monitors prolific offenders, Reynolds was arrested. Detective Constable Larissa Porter, who led the case, described the crime as “really cruel” and emphasised that Reynolds had exploited the victim’s trust.

Operation Castle has successfully identified patterns of offending and gathered vital intelligence on Doncaster’s most prolific burglars. Reynolds, aged 43, pleaded guilty to one count of burglary dwelling and theft at Sheffield Crown Court on 9th February. On 15th May, he was sentenced to six years and nine months in jail after appearing for a sentencing hearing at the same court.