Two burglars have been jailed after stealing various items from a student’s bedroom in Nottingham.
The victim was alerted to the theft on 28 April this year when he received notifications from his bank of two payments totalling more than £120 at a nearby convenience store.
He soon realised that his wallet was missing from his room, along with a games console and other items.
Known criminals John Sisson and Brinsley Forrester were identified from CCTV footage recorded inside and outside the victim’s accommodation in Howard Street, Nottingham.
They were also caught on camera as they attempted to use their victim’s card to buy alcohol at the nearby shop.
Both men were later positively identified by officers.
Sisson repeatedly denied any involvement but was convicted last month by a jury at Nottingham Crown Court of burglary and fraud by false representation.
Forrester, who had committed another opportunistic burglary at a bar and restaurant in George Street on 26 April, was arrested after robbing a man waiting for a bus in Nottingham city centre on 2 May.
He later pleaded guilty to robbery, burglary, theft, and fraud offences.
Appearing via video link at Nottingham Crown Court on Wednesday, 20 November, Sisson, aged 48, formerly of Carlton Street, Nottingham, was jailed for three years.
Forrester, aged 33, of no fixed address, was jailed for 27 months.
Detective Constable Tim Townsend, of Nottinghamshire Police, said:
“Sisson and Forrester are experienced and opportunist criminals who exploited an insecure side door to gain access to this student accommodation.
“As their victim sat watching football with his friends in a communal area, they gained access to his room and stole items from within.
“Whilst the victim in this case was in no way to blame for what happened, this incident should serve as a timely reminder to everyone living in communal accommodation to make sure that doors are left secure.
“Because unfortunately there are people like Sisson and Forrester around who will see an open door or window as an invitation to come in and take what they want.”
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