Man jailed for multiple offences including assault of an emergency worker

A 42-year-old man has been jailed after he broken into a family home, took their cars and assaulted an officer when tracked down.

The court heard how Matthew Dean broke into a property in the Swollownest area of Rotherham, taking keys to two vehicles and escaping in one of them.

Officers responded and tracked down the stolen vehicles using their fitted trackers, locating both of them a short time later. Upon officers tracking the vehicles, Dean fled the scene, after kicking an officer when he got detained.

Forensic evidence later resulted in Dean’s arrest, with him being charged for his involvement.

Detective Sergeant Melissa Green, the officer in charge of this case, said: "Dean caused some real distress to a family when he broke into their home and took their vehicles.

"Through some great communication between the family and the officers, tracking the location of the vehicle, both were recovered a short while later. With forensic evidence placing Dean at the scene of the crime, Investigating Officer Shannon Lake was able to secure the evidence needed to get him before the courts.

"Being a victim of burglary can be extremely upsetting, as your homes and private space is invaded. I am pleased we have got the person responsible behind bars."

Dean appeared before Sheffield Crown Court yesterday (Wednesday 12 February), changing his plea to guilty for burglary, two counts of theft of a motor vehicle and assault of an emergency worker.

Dean, of Heath Road, Bradford, has been sentenced to three years and eight months in prison.