A MAN has been jailed for one year after he was caught with equipment which he intended to use to slip locks.

Stephen Austin, of Moorbank, Oxford, was arrested after being identified as a suspect during a Thames Valley Police burglary operation in Abingdon.

When he was arrested, the 50-year-old was possessing items he was going to use to slip Yale locks that had not been double locked.  

Austin pleaded guilty to one count of going equipped to steal at Oxford Crown Court last Thursday and was sentenced at the same hearing.

Investigating officer, detective constable Richard Whitcombe reminded the public to ensure they kept their valuables safe.

He said: “When he was arrested, Austin had equipment which he intended to use to slip Yale locks that have not been double locked. With this evidence, he was quickly charged with going equipped to steal.

“Unfortunately there are opportunist offenders like Austin who will plan to steal from members of the public, so please remember to lock all your windows and doors before you leave your property.

“You can also make your valuables less attractive to thieves by using a property or police approved marking solution, which is only visible under ultraviolet light.”