A 22-year-old man has been sentenced to jail after pleading guilty to two burglaries targeting local businesses in Crawley. Harvey Brackpool, of no fixed address, broke into two establishments within days, stealing charity boxes and other items.
Brackpool first struck on November 8, breaking into the Tesco Express on Commonwealth Drive, where he stole cigarettes and a charity box. Just two days later, on November 10, he burglarized a Starbucks in Queens Square, again stealing a charity box. His actions caused significant concern among local business owners and the community.
Swift Arrest and Sentencing
After thorough investigations by Sussex Police, Brackpool was arrested on December 9 and promptly charged the same day. He appeared before Crawley Magistrates’ Court on December 10, where he admitted to both offences. The court sentenced him to 24 weeks in prison and ordered him to pay £100 in compensation.
During sentencing, the court described Brackpool as having “a flagrant disregard for people and their property.”
Police Commitment to Community Safety
Chief Inspector Steve Turner, District Commander for Crawley and Mid Sussex, praised the rapid police work that led to Brackpool’s conviction.
“We are committed to bringing more offenders to justice and safeguarding our community, including local businesses from burglars,” Turner stated. “Our teams worked tirelessly to ensure Brackpool was charged, and this swift conviction highlights our strong stance against burglars. We will continue to target suspects and ensure communities feel safe and protected.”
Protecting Local Businesses
The incidents underline Sussex Police’s focus on tackling crimes that impact local businesses and the broader community. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity and support efforts to prevent such offences.
