Man sentenced to over four years for series of business burglaries in Hastings

David Morten, 42, of no fixed address, was sentenced last week to four years and three months in prison for his involvement in a series of business burglaries in Hastings.

The offences were investigated as part of a series, following a number of reports of offences in Hastings town centre between 8 and 15 April.

Neighbourhood Policing Teams, alongside the East Sussex Burglary Team and CID, carried out fast-paced enquiries which led to Morten being identified, arrested and charged.

Morten appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on 16 April, where he pleaded guilty to 11 counts of burglary other than dwelling, two counts of attempted burglary other than dwelling and two counts of theft from a shop.

He appeared at Lewes Crown Court on Tuesday, 4 August, where he was sentenced.

Detective Sergeant Jake O'Reilly, from the East Sussex Burglary Team, said: “We understand the concern caused by business burglaries in Hastings town centre and want to reassure the community that we have taken robust action.

“Following a number of reports, officers carried out fast-paced enquiries which led to Morten being brought before the courts, where he pleaded guilty.

“This sentence reflects the seriousness of the offending and the impact these offences can have on local businesses and the wider community".