A “persistent” thief was caught on the dashcam of the Jaguar he had stolen as he returned to switch its lights off.

Images of Luke Carney, from Heath Close, Swanley, were recovered by officers who located the luxury vehicle which was taken from outside an address in Bexley last year.

The car was reported stolen during the early hours of December 4 but it was recovered by police less than an hour later thanks to tracking software.

The victim checked the dashcam which showed a suspect returning to the car to turn off the lights.

The images were sent to officers who immediately recognised Carney having dealt with him previously.

On December 14, the 25-year-old was arrested near his home.

Searches at the property led to the discovery of quantities of cannabis, along with cash, slingshots and ball bearings, among other items.

A car key found in his possession was linked by officers to a Range Rover stolen just days earlier from outside Swanley train station.

Carney was charged with two counts of theft of a motor vehicle and with possessing cannabis with intent to supply.

He pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court and on April 17 was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison.

The £360 worth of cash seized from his address was ordered by the court to go to a local charity.

Detective Sergeant Hayley Chilmaid said: “Carney is a prolific criminal who will take any opportunity to steal from other people.

“He is a person who clearly has no regard for the impact his offending will have on his victims and despite several previous warnings and chances offered by the courts seems completely unwilling to change his ways.

“Offenders like Carney persistently prey upon hard working and law-abiding residents, targeting cars and property with the aim of stealing anything they can get their hands on.

“On this occasion it is pleasing that we have been able to return both stolen vehicles to their rightful owners.

“Residents and businesses in the local area will hopefully also be reassured that Carney is now serving a custodial sentence.”