19-02-2025
Watch: Burglar caught in Home Alone-style trap
The moment a prolific burglar was caught by a Home Alone-style bucket trap has been captured by a security camera.
Paul Howell, 56, was jailed for three years and seven months after he was filmed prowling around the back of a house in Blyth, Northumberland at around 3am on Nov 9 last year.
The homeowners became aware of his suspicious activity when the thief tripped over a string tied to a bucket of water which tipped over and soaked his shoes.
Howell fled the detached property in Bondicar Terrace but was caught days later.
The homeowners laid the simple trap at their home after it had been targeted by Howell on three occasions before.
When they spotted the upturned bucket, they checked their security camera's footage and contacted police.
Officers recognised Howell, who had over 100 convictions dating back to 1986, and arrested him at his home in Blyth.
In the video, Howell can be seen with his face partially covered attempting to open a door and window before fleeing.
He also urinated on the drive as he left the property, the court heard.
Howell was also charged in connection with two separate burglary offences the following week at another address on Laburnum Avenue in the town.
On that occasion, he forced entry into a property before stealing chainsaws, jewellery, bicycles, phones, laptops and cameras.
Howell admitted to attempted burglary and burglary at Newcastle Crown Court and was jailed for 43 months on Monday.
Det Con Jon Mullen, of Northumbria Police, said: 'Burglary is an invasive crime which sadly leaves people feeling unsafe in their own homes.
'Howell is a prolific offender who is now facing a lengthy spell behind bars following this sentence.
'This case is the latest example which demonstrates the importance of reporting anything suspicious in their communities.'
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