Man jailed for burglary after being detained by off duty police officer

A man has been sentenced to four months in prison after being caught by an off duty police officer in Winchester.

Paul David Wild, 41, of Hyde Gate, Winchester pleaded guilty to burglary other than dwelling and possession of a controlled Class B drug at Basingstoke Magistrates Court on Monday, 18 March.

The officer had just finished a night shift on the morning of Sunday, 17 March and was making his way home when he saw two men running across the road in Hyde Street.

Pulling over in his vehicle, he got out to see if anyone needed help, to be told that one of the men had just found the other stealing items from his garden office.

He presented himself as an off duty police officer and detained him before carrying out a search and finding a number of items which belonged to the victim, including a laptop, Bluetooth speakers and three skateboards.

All the stolen property was returned to the victim.

Police Staff Investigator Michael Longmore, said: “Thanks to the victim and this officer, Wild was caught and put before the court in just over 24 hours after the burglary took place.

“Burglary is an invasive crime and can leave victims feeling insecure and vulnerable in their own homes. I hope the speed at which this has been resolved has brought some comfort to the victim."

For advice and information on ways in which you can keep your home secure, visit the Crime Prevention page on our website: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/