Serial Thief Jailed for Sleeping in Cars and Stealing Cards

A Barry man with a staggering 143 previous offences has been sent to prison after breaking into unlocked vehicles to sleep in them and steal valuables. 🚗💳

Stephen Dutton, 46, of Holton Road in Barry, targeted multiple vehicles during his latest crime spree, Cardiff Magistrates’ Court heard.

Prosecutor Carrie Winter told the court that one victim discovered Dutton had spent the night in her Audi Q8 after finding two lighters left on the driver’s seat. The incident was captured on her husband’s car camera, showing Dutton leaving the vehicle around 8am on February 26.

In another incident on April 7, Dutton broke into a Volkswagen Touran belonging to Curtis Hogan, stealing Beats headphones, Tom Ford aftershave, and Ray-Ban sunglasses valued at £550, along with three bank cards.

Mr Hogan woke to bank notifications showing Dutton had used his cards to spend £86 at a One Stop convenience shop.

Forensic evidence, including the abandoned lighters, helped authorities catch Dutton, who pleaded guilty to vehicle interference, theft and fraud.

Defence solicitor Declan McSorley told the court: “The cards were taken for food, alcohol and some groceries. He has been homeless and sofa-surfing. The cars were unlocked and he did not break into them with force. He has been sleeping in the vehicles and has attempted to empty them.”

Deputy District Judge Paul Conlon stated: “The offending is so serious it requires a term of imprisonment.”

Dutton, who was already on a suspended sentence for similar offences, received a 30-week jail term, consisting of his activated 18-week suspended sentence plus an additional 12 weeks. He was also ordered to pay £154 in compensation to Mr Hogan upon release. ⚖️