By Jenni Davidson
A burglar who stole money from a Brighton pensioner has been jailed for seven years.
Patrick Doyle, 45, of Western Road, London, and an accomplice stole hundreds of pounds from a 90-year-old woman in Manor Gardens, Brighton.
They tricked their way into her home on Friday 22 November by claiming to be water board officials.
They also stole from pensioners in Crawley and Eastbourne on the same day.
Doyle was caught after officers were able to link a footprint at one of the homes and a vehicle seen near each of the victims’ addresses to him.
He pled guilty to three counts of burglary at Lewes Crown Court.
He was jailed for seven years under the third strike rule because he had previous convictions for burglary.
The court also ordered him to pay a £120 victim surcharge.
Doyle’s accomplice has not yet been caught.
Detective Constable Richard Valder-Davis said: “It is possible that there were more victims who have never come forward and I would encourage anyone who was visited by Doyle to contact us.
“We are still looking for the man who accompanied Doyle at each of the crimes.
“I would also urge people to check who they are opening their front door to and especially who they let into their homes.”
Sussex Police are urging anyone who has concerns about someone who has called at their door to phone them immediately.
If you have any information about the burglaries call 101, email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
