Rainham burglar who grabbed keys through a cat flap jailed.

An opportunistic burglar who gained access to a house by grabbing keys through a cat flap has been jailed following an investigation by officers in Dagenham.

Daniel Meade, 43 (03.06.79), of Upper Rainham Road, was sentenced to three years imprisonment at Snaresbrook Crown Court yesterday, Thursday, 27 October after pleading guilty to burglary.

He was also fined £228.

At around 17:30hrs on 27 August 2022 Meade approached an address in Dagenham. He went down a side path and climbed through a bush before reaching through a cat flap to grab a set of keys, which he then used to unlock the back door.

He stole a number of items including perfume, toy figurines, and a handbag before fleeing.

Police were called and officers quickly located and arrested him.

He was taken into custody and answered no comment during police interview. He was later charged.

PC Adam Sparrow, East Area Command Unit, said: “This was a very frightening ordeal for the victim who was not at home but was able to see him via CCTV.

“She called us and we were quickly on scene to arrest him. Meade has a long history of offending, including burglary offences.

“Many burglaries are opportunistic, as is the case here. I would advise Londoners to keep storage of their personal items well out of sight and reach of any thieves, as well as investing in deterrents such as lighting and CCTV – the availability of which left Meade with no choice but to plead guilty here.”

For more advice on how to avoid becoming a victim of burglary visit: https://www.met.police.uk/cp/c…

Daniel Meade from Upper Rainham Road.