Prolific thief jailed after South Yorkshire crime spree

Martin Shaw, 41, of no fixed address, was sentenced after being charged with a burglary at a business premises in Kilnhurst on 2 May. Shaw gained entry by causing damage to the shutters before stealing more than £1,500 worth of vape products.

In another incident which took place shortly after the burglary in the early hours of 3 May, Shaw was spotted trying to break in to several vehicles parked in St George’s Drive in Swinton. A number of residents spotted Shaw and he was later identified by local officers from CCTV images.

Temporary Detective Inspector Scott Szymczak said: “We know that burglary is an issue across our communities in Rotherham, and please be assured that we are doing all we can to tackle it and bring those responsible before the courts.

“Offenders often cause extensive damage in their efforts to gain access to commercial premises and search for valuables. It’s this destruction which can cost thousands of pounds to business owners.

“We are committed to working with businesses, and residents, to protect their property from thieves such as Shaw. Please get in touch with your local policing team to report any suspicious activity or learn more about anti-burglary operations across the town.

Shaw was jailed at Sheffield Magistrates Court on Tuesday 10 August.