A GOSPORT man has been jailed for three years after he burgled a pensioner.

Terrance Patrick Braden's DNA was found by investigators following the attack on an 80-year-old woman in Britten Road, Lee-on-the-Solent.

The 38-year-old stole a handbag containing £100 cash from the victim's house in May.

At Portsmouth Crown Court, Braden, of Chilworth Grove, Gosport, pleaded guilty to burglary and was sentenced to 876 days in prison.

Following the incident, investigating officer PC Alam Mahmmued said: "Residential burglary offences can have a dramatic impact on victims, especially if items of sentimental value are taken.

"I’m glad that this sentence reflects the seriousness of Braden’s offending."

In addition Braden was sentenced to 182 days in prison to be served consecutively to the burglary and breach offence sentences, but concurrently to the theft offence sentence, for committing fraud by false representation by using fraudulent credit and debit cards to buy cigarettes on April 17, 182 days in prison to be served consecutively to the burglary and breach offence sentences, but concurrently to the fraud offence sentence, for theft from a motor vehicle on April 17 and 57 days in prison to be served consecutively for breach of conditional discharge.

Hampshire Constabulary would like to take this opportunity to remind people of the following crime prevention advice:

  • Shut all windows and lock them when you are not using the room, at night, and when you leave your property

  • Lock all front and rear doors at night and when you are out. If you have a UPVC door with a multi-point lock ensure you lift the handle and lock it with the key.

  • Put all car keys and other keys out of sight and not in reach of windows and letterboxes. It doesn't take much for the keys to be hooked through the letterbox.

  • Leave a light on so your home looks occupied if you are going out for the evening. If you head out while it is still daylight and won't be back till after dark then a timer switches (available from most DIY stores) can be useful in turning your lights, radios and other appliances on at a set time before you get back.

  • Ensure side gates are locked to prevent access to the rear of the property.

  • Do not leave ladders and garden tools in your garden; lock them away in your shed.

  • Have an intruder alarm system installed by an approved contractor. Ensure a visible alarm box is attached to the outside of your home. Also consider fitting security lighting.

  • Use door chains and spy holes to give you extra security if someone knocks on your door. Never be afraid to turn people away. If you have concerns about anyone who has come to your door call the police.