One man crime wave is ended (From Warrington Guardian)

One man crime wave is ended

A THIEF described as a 'one man crime wave' is awaiting sentencing after admitting responsibility for a recent spate of local burglaries.

Mark Cunningham, 36, of Kimberley Street, pleaded guilty to two charges of burglary, with 19 other incidents taken into consideration, as well as two charges relating to possession of heroin and cocaine last Monday.

He has now been remanded in custody to appear before Chester crown court for sentencing in September.

Mr Cunningham was initially identified as a suspect for the dramatic six-week rise in burglaries when officers from the Congleton Community Action Team stopped a woman driver and searched her car in connection with an unrelated matter.

PC Carol Rayner said: "During the search we found evidence identifying Mr Cunningham in the Congleton area and possible links to the burglaries."

The arrest of Mr Cunningham on July 27 came as a result of a Neighbourhood Policing Unit initiative led by Det Sgt Chris Pyatt.

Police seized property and forensic evidence during a search of Mr Cunningham's home, which linked him to three of the burglaries.

DS Pyatt said: "This was one of our most successful operations ever in Congleton and it is very unusual to solve so many burglaries in one go.

"I am delighted at the way different departments worked together and will be disappointed if this one man crime wave gets sentenced to less than three years."

Sgt Gareth Woods said: "Clearly this accounts for the vast majority of burglary dwelling offences committed recently and as such is a significant arrest."

Plain-clothes officers worked through the night specifically targeting a suspect for the burglary offences, and also uncovered some disturbing news about security in Congleton homes.

Sgt Woods explained: "Whilst on patrol during the hours of darkness the officers were aware that the vast majority of houses had downstairs windows open and gates unlocked.

"It is imperative residents realise there are individuals around at this time who will take advantage of poor home security.

"Please ensure that downstairs windows are locked and alarms are set at night."