A prolific offender who repeatedly burgled two Rotherham businesses has been jailed.
In October 2023, Gerard Langton, of Fir Walk, broke into a convenience store in Thrybergh using an upstairs premise. Langton damaged the flooring of the above property to gain access to the shop, stealing over £19,000 worth of cigarettes in the process.
On three occasions in October and November 2023, Langton broke into a takeaway, also in Thrybergh, by damaging the property’s roof. The 47-year-old also caused extensive damage to the building’s security system and fuse board.
Langton then proceeded to steal any money which had been left in the building – this included £200 from the till and £50 from charity boxes. The damage to the property also cost the victim over £2,000 in repairs.
An investigation into the break-ins was launched, and after completing CCTV enquiries Langton was identified at both scenes.
Forensic work by officers also linked Langton to the incidents after footwear marks left at the scene were matched to shoes worn by Langton on the CCTV footage. His DNA was also found on discarded tools near the scene.
Langton originally pleaded not guilty but faced with the overwhelming evidence linking him to the scene, he entered a guilty plea to two counts of commercial burglary at Sheffield Crown Court on Wednesday (10 July).
He was jailed for two years and two months at the same court on the same day.
Detective Constable Jack Mitchell, of the Neighbourhood Crime Team, said: “Langton is a career criminal with no remorse for his actions. He has plagued the area of Thrybergh attacking much loved community businesses placing them at risk of closure.
“Langton’s refusal to take responsibility for his actions until faced with overwhelming evidence shows his character. I admire the tenacity these businesses have displayed throughout this challenging and lengthy investigation.”
