Smiling burglar jailed for 5 years

A prolific burglar grins at the camera and seems to have seen the funny side of things after he was arrested.

But the smile must have fallen from Russell Bastow's face when was jailed for five years today.

Bastow, aged 33, of Mazurek Way, Swindon, was found guilty of burglary and sentenced at Swindon Crown Court.

The incident took place at a house Liden in April this year when Bastow managed to gain access to the property through a kitchen window.

He was discovered by the homeowner who found him rummaging through his bedroom.

But Bastow then chased the man out of the house wielding a large metal tool.

During the burglary, Bastow managed to steal jewellery and tamper with a home computer.

“Today’s sentencing sends a stark message out that burglary is a serious offence and will be dealt with as such," said a spokesman for Wiltshire Police.

“Bastow is a prolific offender who has been involved in countless burglaries in and around the Swindon area.

“His actions have had a severe affect on many people in Swindon.

“Burglary is a very personal crime and many victims feel that their home has been violated by these intruders.

“We would urge anyone who witnesses anything suspicious or as any information on any incidents of burglary to come forward.

"All information given to the police will be treated in the strictest confidence.”