Burglar Jailed for Stealing Family Heirlooms During Proposal Trip

A burglar broke into a Caerphilly home and stole irreplaceable family treasures whilst the homeowner was on holiday in South Africa – just after he’d proposed to his fiancée 💔

Rhys Colyer, 33, from Blackwood, targeted a house in Llanbradach and made off with a watch and St Christopher necklace that had been passed down from the victim’s late father and grandfather.

The homeowner discovered the break-in through his Ring doorbell and CCTV cameras on the final day of his once-in-a-lifetime trip, moments after popping the question.

In his victim impact statement, he said: “This has had a catastrophic effect on me. Some of the items were of sentimental value and can never be replaced.”

Footage of the burglary was shared on social media, leading to Colyer being recognised by his probation officer and a detective. He later handed himself in at Blackwood police station.

Newport Crown Court heard that Colyer, of no fixed abode, has 15 previous convictions for 39 offences – including nine dwelling burglaries.

His solicitor Sophie Jones told the court: “His best mitigation is his guilty plea and he’s ashamed of his actions. Alcohol is his demon.”

Judge Celia Hughes sentenced Colyer to 32 months in prison, telling him: “It’s clear that this has been very distressing for the victim. Items of great sentimental value were lost forever. You have a terrible record of convictions as a burglar. You took these items without any thought for anyone but yourself.”

Colyer will serve half his sentence in custody before release on licence and must pay a statutory victim surcharge 🏛️