A man from Gravesend who burgled a home less than a mile from where he lives has been jailed for over three years.

Wayne Austin, 33, of Princes Road, broke into a home in Rumania Walk, Gravesend, on November 20 and stole jewellery, a laptop and cash.

Detectives found Austin’s DNA at the scene and he was arrested and charged on December 2.

He was remanded in custody and appeared at Maidstone Crown Court on December 19 where he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 40 months in prison.

Detective Constable Richard Olley, investigating officer at Kent Police, said: "There is a misconception that burglaries only occur at night, but the sobering reality is that they often happen during the day.

"During daylight Austin reached over a gate to unlock it, before breaking into the property and rummaging through the victim’s belongings.

"This is an unacceptable and intrusive crime, and the sentence shows that burglaries are dealt with very seriously.

"If you see someone acting suspiciously please do not hesitate to contact the police when the suspect is still in the area."