A prolific burglar responsible for a series of break-ins has been jailed after his DNA was matched to bloodstains left at crime scenes.

Freddie Webb targeted empty properties in Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks while the residents were on holiday – stealing jewellery, watches and cash.

The 49-year-old carried out four burglaries between January 17 and April 5, 2025, when he gained entry by breaking the glass on the patio doors.

But a CID investigation recovered bloodstains from bed sheets and a wardrobe which were found to match Webb’s DNA.

These were found at addresses in Frant Road and Broadwater Down in Tunbridge Wells, and from a victim’s home near Sevenoaks High Street.

On April 10, officers tracked Webb to a hotel in Hitchen Hatch Lane in Sevenoaks. Items of clothing which matched CCTV images of a hat and jacket worn by the offender in some of the burglaries was seized.

Searches to Webb’s phone revealed he had used the internet to check if there had been news coverage around his name and any recent Sevenoaks burglaries.

Webb, of no fixed address, was arrested and charged with four counts of burglary.

He pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court and on Friday (May 23) was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison.

DC Chloe Chapman, leading the investigation, said: “Webb is a career criminal and prolific thief, the likes of whom think they can get away with making other people’s lives a misery. Thankfully, the evidence in this case was irrefutable, leading him no choice but to plead guilty.

“Burglary is an incredibly invasive crime, which has a long-term and often devastating effect on victims.

“Those targeted sometimes lose items of great sentimental value which can never be replaced, and it is for these reasons we will continue to relentlessly pursue offenders and bring them before the courts.”