A prolific burglar who sustained life-changing injuries in a car crash discharged himself from hospital to avoid police and went on to commit another break-in, a court has heard.
A Spree of Invasive Crimes
George Dunn, 42, from Maidstone, stole thousands of pounds worth of items from at least six properties across Kent. His crime spree took place between June and October, with targets including war medals, watches, and handbags. The total value of goods taken exceeded £3,000.
Kent Police officers, who were actively investigating the series of burglaries, found crucial DNA evidence and CCTV footage linking Dunn to the crimes. Detectives were searching for him in a bid to halt his offending.
Crash and Hospital Escape
The investigation took a dramatic turn in the early hours of July 20. Dunn, who was disqualified from driving and had no insurance, crashed his car into a wall and fence in Tunbridge Wells, sustaining serious, life-changing injuries.
Despite being in a life-threatening condition, he attempted to flee the scene as police arrived. Firefighters eventually removed him from the wreckage, and he was rushed to a London hospital for urgent treatment.
However, before he was deemed medically fit to be interviewed by detectives, Dunn took matters into his own hands. In a brazen attempt to evade justice, he discharged himself from the hospital.
Arrest and Sentencing
Undeterred by his severe injuries, Dunn burgled a sixth home in Biddenden just one month later. During this offence, he was spotted by a neighbour as he fell out of a window.
Officers tracked him down and arrested him on October 15. He was charged with six counts of burglary and multiple traffic offences. Dunn pleaded guilty to all charges at Maidstone Crown Court and was sentenced on December 23 to six years and nine months in prison.
Detective Inspector Lisa Featherstone of Kent Police said: "Dunn is a prolific offender who was determined to continue committing these invasive crimes. Not even a life-changing injury deterred him, and he discharged himself from hospital to not only try and evade the consequences of his actions but to continue offending."
She added: "This was a lengthy investigation and officers worked hard to link Dunn to multiple burglaries and driving offences across the county. I’d like to thank the victims for their continued support throughout and hope they find some comfort in knowing Dunn has been locked up for these crimes."
