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Burglar who left personal details at scene of the crime jailed for four years

A hapless burglar was caught by police after he left his full name and address behind at the scene of the crime.

Malcolm Pyke stole £150 worth of cleaning machinery from a garage in East Herrington, Sunderland, but left behind his rucksack containing personal letters which had his details on the envelopes.

The 43-year-old, of Tanfield Road, Sunderland, admitted the March break-in when he appeared at Newcastle Crown Court on Tuesday, Northumbria Police said.

Malcolm Pyke left his details at the scene of the crime (Northumbria Police/PA)
Malcolm Pyke left his details at the scene of the crime (Northumbria Police/PA)

He also pleaded guilty to a separate charge of burglary and two offences of theft of property in relation to a crime spree in Palmersville, North Tyneside, which even saw him snatch clothes from a family’s washing line.

After Pyke was jailed for four years, Detective Sergeant Chris Raper-Smith said: “Malcolm Pyke is a prolific thief who has consistently proven a disregard for the law and the welfare of others.

“Unfortunately for him, his latest offence which was fairly unsophisticated saw him leave behind a number of personal items which directed officers straight to his front door.”

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