Prolific burglar in Norfolk ordered to wear electronic tag

Over the course of just a few months this year, James Smith was connected to more than ten incidents including assaults, shoplifting, commercial break-ins targeting premises like pubs and takeaways.

Smith, aged 47, of Stracey Road, Norwich, appeared at Norwich Crown Court on Wednesday, July 10 for sentencing having admitted to two assaults, the theft of a handbag, three burglaries, two attempted burglaries, two theft from shops, possession of cannabis, and one assault of a prison custody officer.

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The court said he must wear an electronic tag for six months, engage with mental health treatment for 12 months and comply with a rehabilitation activity requirement of up to 25 days.

The offences all took place between March and May this year in Norwich, Great Yarmouth, and Lowestoft.

In some instances he was caught on CCTV and recognised by officers.

Investigators went on to compile five cases against him.

As he was a suspect in a number of similar crimes, he was approached by officers from Operation Converter.

Smith asked for 12 other offences to be taken into consideration by the court, some dating back four years.

Among them were businesses in Holt, Great Yarmouth, Sheringham, and Cromer which Smith had entered by stealth or force, often smashing a door or window and grabbing money from the till.

He was variously connected to all the crimes via CCTV, DNA, or fingerprints.

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The TIC offences all took place between August 15, 2020 and May 16, 2024.

At times he was able to take items or cash worth over £200, at others he fled empty handed but left behind repair bills of close to £800 for his victims.

Duncan Etchells, staff supervisor for Op Converter, said: "Smith is a prolific offender who targeted businesses across Norfolk showing no regard for the harm his actions were causing."