Jailed Maidstone burglar caught in the act on CCTV

A burglar arrested after he was pursued by residents in Maidstone has been sentenced to three years in prison. Stephen Chambers broke into a property in Brunswick Street last month, but was caught after neighbours detained him until police arrived. Chambers, aged 35, of Hayle Road, Maidstone, targeted the address on 16 June 2019. After failing to gain entry through a front entrance he accessed the back garden and smashed a glass conservatory door. Two men, alerted to his suspicious behaviour, also entered the garden and discovered entry had been forced. A short time later Chambers was seen by the men in a road close to the property. They gave chase and restrained him. Police attended and Chambers was arrested. An investigation led to the recovery of CCTV which showed him trying to open the front door by inserting various implements, including part of paint roller, through the letterbox. Chambers was charged with burglary and remanded in custody. He was sentenced on Tuesday 16 July, after pleading guilty at Maidstone Crown Court. Detective Constable Iain Joyce, of Maidstone CID said: ‘Chambers is a prolific and repeat offender who was faced with irrefutable evidence in court and had little choice but to plead guilty. It is unusual for a burglar to break into a home in such a brazen manner and unfortunately for Chambers he didn’t bargain for the vigilance shown by members of this community. Whilst we would never encourage members of the public to put themselves at risk, I would like to thank and commend the residents who have helped us bring this offender to justice.’