Homeowners set up Home Alone-style trap to foil serial burglar

A prolific UK home invader who was brought undone by a Home Alone-style trap has been jailed for more than three years.

Paul Howell attempted to break into a Northumberland home at 3am in November last year when he fell into a homeowner's trap.

The occupants had set up a string between their home and a full bucket of water after several reports of attempted burglaries in the area.

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When Howell set off the trap, he fled the scene.

The occupants found the overturned bucket, checked their CCTV and reported the offence days later.

The 56-year-old was arrested soon after and charged with attempted burglary.

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Police also charged Howell in connection with two separate burglary offences the following week at another home.

During that attempt, Howell forced entry into the property before stealing an array of items including jewellery and pedal cycles.

Howell pleaded guilty to all charges at Newcastle Crown Court in December and was sentenced to three years and seven months in prison.

Northumbria Police detective constable Jon Mullen described burglary as "an invasive crime which sadly leaves people feeling unsafe in their own homes."

"Howell is a prolific offender who is now facing a lengthy spell behind bars following this sentence," Mullen said.

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