Sheffield burglar caught by DNA evidence after dropping his vape outside victim's home
Other blunders included keeping a video of one of his many stolen cars on his phone
A Sheffield burglar who broke into five homes in a two-day crime spree was caught by DNA evidence after dropping his vape outside a victim’s house.
Corey Rodgers, of no fixed abode, forced his way into five homes and tried to get into two more in a string of burglaries between January 19 and 21, 2026.
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Four vehicles were stolen from members of the public during his exploits including a Mercedes GLA, BMW, Cupra and Jeep Avenger.
But the 21-year-old left behind a trail of evidence - including dropping his vape covered in his DNA outside a home he targeted in Rotherham.
Other blunders included keeping a video of one of the stolen cars on his phone.
In total, Rodgers was charged with seven burglaries, including an offence from June 2025 in which he stole cash and jewellery worth £2,000 from an elderly woman.
He was also charged with two counts of attempted burglary and four counts of theft of a motor vehicle.
The majority of the offences happened at addresses across Sheffield.
Rodgers, 21, appeared at Sheffield Crown Court on Wednesday, July29 where he was jailed for five years and three months.
Investigating Officer Ellie Davies, of South Yorkshire Police, said: “Rodgers is a prolific offender and I’m pleased he is now behind bars where he’ll be unable to cause any further harm to communities across South Yorkshire.
“Teams from across the force have worked together to secure this conviction and I hope a prison sentence can bring a sense of closure to those who found themselves on the receiving end of his criminality.
“A lot of work goes on behind the scenes to investigate burglaries and we’re always exploring new ways to link offences and target suspects.
“If you have been the victim of a burglary it’s important that you report it as soon as possible. This helps preserve important lines of enquiry such as forensic opportunities, which in turn helps us to quickly progress investigations.
“You can report information to us online or by calling 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.”