A bungling burglar has been jailed after falling victim to a Home Alone-style bucket trap set by homeowners in Northumberland. Paul Howell, 56, attempted to break into a house in Bondicar Terrace, Blyth, shortly before 3am on 9 November last year, but tripped on a string attached to a full bucket of water.
The homeowners had rigged the snare following a spate of attempted break-ins in the area. After springing the trap, Howell fled, leaving the overturned bucket behind. The occupants reviewed their CCTV footage and later reported the incident to Northumbria Police.
Officers recognised Howell, a prolific offender with 108 previous convictions including 25 burglaries dating back to 1986, from the footage. He was arrested at his home in Disraeli Street, Blyth, and charged with attempted burglary, as well as two separate burglaries at an address on Laburnum Avenue in Blyth the following week. At that break-in, jewellery and pedal cycles were stolen, though most were recovered from Howell's home.
Howell pleaded guilty to all charges at Newcastle Crown Court in December and was sentenced this week to three years and seven months in prison. Leading the investigation, Detective Constable Jon Mullen of Northumbria Police said: “Burglary is an invasive crime which sadly leaves people feeling unsafe in their own homes. Howell is a prolific offender who is now facing a lengthy spell behind bars following this sentence.” He added: “We will continue to act upon these reports and do everything in our power to bring those responsible for offences in our areas before court to face justice.”
