Burglar sent to jail after victim helps deliver justice

A man who broke into a house in Sheffield and was bravely detained by the homeowner has been jailed for more than two years.

David Timmins, 42, was arrested at the house on Penistone Road during the early hours of 2 September after he alerted the homeowners to his presence by switching on a downstairs light.

They immediately called 999 and our officers were at the scene just 10 minutes after receiving the call. On arrival, they found Timmins being pinned down on the sofa by the homeowner.

He was promptly arrested and immediately admitted his guilt to officers.

During a hearing on 3 September, Timmins, of North Hill Road, Sheffield, pleaded guilty to a charge of burglary dwelling and theft - no violence. He was sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court on 1 November where he was handed jail time totalling two years and six months.

He must also pay a surcharge of £228.

Katie Summerhayes, the officer in charge of this case, said: "The victim of this burglary showed incredible courage in detaining Timmins before we arrived at the scene.

"Our officers acted quickly and, thanks in no small part to the victim, Timmins had no choice but to admit his guilt.

"I am pleased with the result of this case which shows we will take strong, robust action against burglars who think they can terrorise our communities and get away with it."