Jason Brown, 53, a notorious burglar, has been sentenced to five years in prison after police successfully linked him to three separate burglaries across Gloucestershire. Brown, who infamously told officers to “prove it” during police interviews, ultimately admitted to the offences following overwhelming CCTV footage and forensic evidence.
The first burglary occurred on November 2, 2025, in Abbeydale, Gloucester. Brown broke into a home while the owner was away on a walking holiday following his wife’s funeral. He stole a valuable camera, a car, and precious jewellery that had belonged to the victim’s late wife—items of immense sentimental value. The car was later recovered by a member of the public near the property. DNA evidence from the scene was matched to Brown.
The victim expressed deep sorrow over the loss: “Not only have they lost their mother, but now they have lost any chance of owning items belonging to her. These belongings were physical memories of their mother.”
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Just two weeks later, on November 16, Brown was caught on CCTV attempting to break into a garden shed in Brookthorpe, near Gloucester, with a shovel. He entered the home, stealing cash, golf clubs, and credit cards. Police identified Brown when his face covering slipped, and DNA from the shovel confirmed his involvement.
The homeowner shared the harrowing impact of the crime: “The anxiety, the sleepless nights, the anger at someone invading my home and stealing such personal belongings — it has pushed me into a deep depression I have never felt before.”
On November 30, Brown struck again, breaking into a third home near Matson. He gained entry through a dog flap while the occupants slept. CCTV captured him inside the kitchen in a dressing gown and slippers, as he stole Christmas presents beneath the tree. The victim voiced their distress: “You chose to steal gifts meant for loved ones and creep through my home while I slept, causing fear and unease in a community that strives for honesty and peace.”
After evading arrest for a week, Brown surrendered on December 8. During interview, he mostly refused to answer questions—except to tell officers to “prove it.” Charged with three counts of burglary, he pleaded guilty at Gloucester Crown Court on December 20.
Brown’s defence cited his long-term substance abuse and drug relapse as factors contributing to his crimes. The court also noted he was on licence and had a prior record for similar offences.
Judge Recorder Mawhinney highlighted the emotional and psychological harm caused, especially noting the terror the victims endured, including one who was asleep during the break-in. Brown received consecutive sentences totaling five years: 30 months for the first burglary, plus 15 months each for the two subsequent offences.
PC Tim Burch praised the victims' bravery and emphasized the serious consequences of Brown’s repeated offending: “A five-year sentence reflects the gravity of his actions and sends a clear message that persistent burglary will not be tolerated.”