The man also burgled properties in other counties
A serial burglar who smashed his way into homes in Cambridgeshire and other counties has been jailed. Billy Swaley Smith broke into people’s homes and stole several items including jewellery.
He burgled 20 properties across Cambridgeshire, as well as Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex between January 9 and April 7, 2026. Swaley Smith, 37, of Smockhill Close, Norwich, appeared at Ipswich Crown Court on Friday (May 8).
He admitted to two burglaries in Mulbarton, Norwich on February 12 and in Thetford on April 7. He was sentenced to 876 days in prison.
In the Mulbarton burglary, he smashed his way into a house by using a plant pot and made off with a coin collection, jewellery and handbags.
Blood found on a storage cube was matched to Swaley Smith. In the second incident, he ransacked the house and stole jewellery. He was captured at the scene on CCTV and recognised by officers. He was arrested the following day.
Duncan Etchells, police staff supervisor for Op Converter said: “There was nothing sophisticated about these offences – he simply smashed his way into properties and stole anything he thought he could sell quickly for drugs.
“Burglary is by nature a very invasive crime which has a very real impact on victims who were left dealing with the damage and intrusion caused.
This sentence sends a clear message that we will relentlessly pursue prolific offenders and bring them to justice. Hopefully this process brings some reassurance and closure to those who were targeted by this opportunistic offender.”
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