A burglar who preyed on eldery residents at a care home has been jailed

A burglar has been jailed after he stole from residents at a care home in Gateshead.

In October last year, police received reports of a suspected burglary at a premises in the area of Dryden Road in Low Fell.

Following an investigation, Anthony Whitesmith – who had previously been employed as a cleaner in the home – was identified from CCTV footage and arrested on suspicion of burglary.

It led to a search of his address, where officers discovered items including an engraved silver box that had been reported as missing from one of the home’s residents.

The 45-year-old was subsequently charged with two counts of burglary at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court in October, which he subsequently pleaded guilty to.

At Newcastle Crown Court on Wednesday January 29, Whitesmith, of Coltsfoot Gardens, Felling, was jailed for two years and four months for the offences.  

Detective Sergeant Ian Ritchie, of Northumbria Police’s Serious and Organised Crime Team, said: “This is an excellent result for the team and demonstrates the investigating officers’ dedication to bringing this offender to justice.

“In this case, Whitesmith abused his position of trust and played it to his advantage to gain access to the property and commit these offences.

“No-one in a care setting should have to worry about being a victim of crime – and we hope the victims in this case can take comfort in Whitesmith now being behind bars.”

Det Sgt Ritchie continued: “This really highlights the importance of people speaking up and reporting anything suspicious in their community.

“With your co-operation, we can continue our work to identify those committing crimes and ensure they see their day in court.”

To report suspicious activity, send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media, use the live chat function and report forms on the Force website.

Those who are unable to report via those ways can call 101.

In an emergency, or if a crime is taking place, always ring 999.