A MAN has been jailed for five years and eight months after pleading guilty to a series of burglaries and vehicle thefts across Devon and Somerset.

Tyler Brown, 20 of no fixed abode, admitted 20 counts of burglary, two attempted burglaries and 15 further offences relating to the theft of vehicles from those burglaries.

Brown appeared at Exeter Crown Court on Thursday (May 30) He was sentenced to five years and eight months at Exeter Crown Court on Friday, June 7.

Brown broke into 26 separate homes at night, often whilst the victims were asleep, to steal car keys and other personal belongings. He would then take the owner’s vehicles causing significant damage before abandoning them.

The thefts involved differing makes and models of vehicles and number plates that had been altered or changed to cloned number plates.

Detective Sergeant Smith of Exeter CID welcomed the sentences.

He said: “Burglary is an invasive crime that leaves victims feeling vulnerable in their own home. The impact Brown has had by committing these prolific and serious offences should not be underestimated. He has shown no remorse for his actions throughout this case.

“Detectives from Exeter, Plymouth and Barnstaple worked tirelessly and around the clock conducting a significant number of enquiries to bring the offender to justice. I hope this outcome sends a clear message that it will not be tolerated in our community. We will continue to focus our efforts on disrupting this type of criminal activity and bring those responsible to justice.

“It is hoped that this conviction will prevent him from committing further offences and provide at least some consolation to the victims of his crimes.

“I would encourage people to take a look at our crime prevention tips below and necessary steps to avoid falling victim to this acquisitive crime.”