Burglar jailed after leaving blood at scene of crime

A career burglar is back behind bars after he left blood at the home of one of his victims.

Lyam Repton cut his finger while making his way inside the address he had targeted in Station Road, Beeston.

The 42-year-old went on to steal hundreds of pounds of cash, a jewellery box containing rings, a necklace, bracelets, belly bars, and cuff links.

Repton also helped himself to a gold engagement ring, which belonging to the victim’s grandmother, and also swiped the keys to two cars, although the vehicles were not taken.

When the victim returned to her address, on 29 December 2023, she found a glass door had been smashed, rooms in her home had been searched, and her personal belongings had been rifled through.

Crime scene investigation officers attended the burglary and samples of blood found at the scene were analysed. Blood found on the front of a drawer was tested and was found to be a direct match for Repton.

Following detailed inquiries, Repton was arrested and charged with the burglary committed between 24 and 29 December 2023.

Repton, formerly of Chetwin Road, Bilborough, went on to plead guilty to the offence and he was jailed for four-and-a-half years when he appeared at Nottingham Crown Court for sentencing on Monday (19 February 2024).

Tackling and reducing burglary is a local crime priority for Broxtowe.

This ongoing work has included increased hot spot patrols, daily targeted arrests of offenders, investigative ownership by the local CID team, and crime prevention advice to victims.

Detective Sergeant Charlotte Henson, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Repton has a significant history of committing acquisitive offences, with over 40 convictions for burglary, handling, and going equipped to steal offences.

“He committed this offence without any regard whatsoever for the financial and significant emotional impact on the victim.

“I am pleased he is now off the streets and hope his imprisonment will reassure people the force takes all reports of burglary extremely seriously and is committed to both preventing burglaries before they happen and pursuing burglars who blight our communities and bringing them to justice.”