A serial burglar who lived out a real-life Goldilocks nightmare by eating, sleeping, and washing in his victims' homes has been sentenced to four years behind bars.
Wayne Liddell, 43, targeted twelve different properties across Nottingham in a disturbing crime spree that left residents feeling violated in their own homes.
The Unwanted House Guest from Hell
Dubbed the 'Guest from Hell' by prosecutors, Liddell didn't just steal valuables - he made himself completely at home in properties he'd broken into. Nottingham Crown Court heard how the brazen thief helped himself to food from refrigerators, slept in victims' beds, and even used their showers during his intrusions.
One terrified victim described returning home to find their property had been 'lived in' by a stranger, creating a profound sense of violation that went far beyond ordinary burglary.
A Trail of Violated Spaces
The court detailed how Liddell's crime wave unfolded between June and October 2023, with police eventually identifying him through forensic evidence left at multiple scenes.
Detective Constable Rebecca O'Connor of Nottinghamshire Police stated: 'This was a particularly invasive series of burglaries that left victims feeling unsafe in their own homes. The psychological impact of knowing someone has been through your personal belongings, slept in your bed, and eaten your food cannot be underestimated.'
Justice Served with Four-Year Sentence
Liddell ultimately pleaded guilty to twelve counts of burglary and was sentenced to four years in prison. The judge emphasized the psychological trauma inflicted on victims, noting that the personal nature of the crimes warranted a significant sentence.
Police are now urging homeowners to remain vigilant about home security and report any suspicious activity immediately to prevent similar offences in the future.
