Prolific burglar jailed after swiping car and jewellery from Harrogate home

Christopher Waite, of Brander Road, Gipton appeared at York Crown Court on Wednesday, February 24, charged with breaking into the home on Wayside Walk.

Waite pleaded guilty to one count of burglary and one count of theft of a motor vehicle after being successfully identified through forensic evidence left at the scene.

The 42-year-old who has a number of previous charges for burglary, left the homeowners distraught after breaking in and stealing jewellery as well as the car from their driveway.

He was sentenced to four years and six months in prison and Superintendent Mike Walker praised West Yorkshire's assistance in tracing the offender and bringing him to justice.

He said: "This is a great result for both the police and the public in North Yorkshire. The sentence gives a clear message out to travelling criminals; if you come to North Yorkshire to commit crime, we will track you down and bring you to justice.’

‘Waite is a prolific burglar and the sentence he has been handed reflects the serious nature of his offending. It is hoped that this outcome will provide some comfort to his victims in the knowledge that he is now behind bars for a long period of time.’