A BURGLAR has been jailed for four years after he was identified by blood left at the scene of a break-in.

Nicholas Gallagher, 46, of no fixed abode, broke into an address in Beridge Road, Halstead, at some point between 4.30pm on January 27 and 3am on January 28.

The house had been locked but Gallagher smashed a glass window at the back.

Once inside he search several rooms, stealing jewellery, a games console, controllers and games, bottles of alcohol, and a drill.

Blood was also smeared on walls, doors, surfaces, light switches, and bottles of alcohol.

The forensic testing of this blood confirmed it matched that of Gallagher.

He was arrested on February 13 and was charged the following day.

During questioning he admitted to two other burglaries which took place at Bois Field Terrace and Monklands Court, Halstead in February which were taken into consideration at court.

At Chelmsford Crown Court on Tuesday, June 5 he was jailed for four years.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Joanne Lewis, from Braintree CID, said: “Nicholas Gallagher is a prolific burglar who has no respect for other people’s possessions or property.

“He obviously injured himself during the break-in and the blood left at the scene gave us DNA evidence which left him no option but to admit his guilt.

“He did at least then admit to carrying out two other burglaries meaning we can get the people who live there justice.

“I hope Gallagher uses his time in prison to reflect on his actions and the impact they have had on his victims.”