A burglary incident near Haywards Heath has led to a seven-year-plus prison sentence for the offender.
The incident occurred on November 2, 2021, around 2:50 pm. Police responded to a burglary call at Brook Street, Cuckfield. The burglar, who forcibly entered the property, was discovered by the homeowner while searching through a wardrobe.
An altercation ensued, resulting in minor injuries to the 44-year-old homeowner. The burglar, later identified as Justin Collins, 46, with no fixed address, escaped with jewelry valued at thousands of pounds.
Collins was apprehended on January 18, 2022, in relation to the burglary. Charged with burglary involving violence, he appeared at Lewes Crown Court on December 14, 2023. Collins admitted his guilt and received a sentence of seven years and six months in prison.
Investigating officer Alicia Smith said: “This is a fantastic result for a burglary offence, and even more so as Collins caused increased stress and concern for the victim. I hope this case can set a precedent and others who think about committing these types of crimes can see they will get a robust sentence.”
