A MAN who attempted to break into a pensioner’s Shard End home twice in two days has been jailed.
Peter Swali of Yardley Green Road in Bordseley Green was sentenced to eight years and three months in prison after he targeted the 76-year-old woman’s home on two separate occasions.
Birmingham Crown Court heard on 6 February 2022 he tried to smash his way into the property but was disturbed and fled the scene.
However, he was so determined to burgle the house he decided to try again just a day later.
When the 23-year-old failed to gain entry a second time, he drove away from the scene in a VW Golf.
When police caught up with him the court heard Sawli jumped into the back of the car and claimed he was an innocent passenger, who had nothing to do with the burglary and had been picked up – by the now absent driver – just 30 minutes earlier.
But CCTV footage from neighbouring properties had captured the attempted burglary and officers were able to identify the vehicle involved, the driver and the clothing that the burglar was wearing.
Sawli was found guilty of aggravated attempted burglary and attempted burglary.
Detective Sergeant Jay Aston, from the burglary neighbourhood crime team, said: “Swali targeted the same victim on two separate occasions.
“The vulnerability of the victim and the seriousness of the crime was taken into consideration and the sentence reflects this.
“Burglary is a serious crime which deserves lengthy sentences.
“I’m satisfied that the severity of this crime has the correct punishment.
“People should be able to feel safe in their own homes.”
