A PROLIFIC thief has been sentenced to four years in jail after carrying out more than 70 burglaries.

Paul Newton, 43, broke into 74 homes in north and mid Essex, stealing expensive jewellery as well as high-end electrical goods.

In one case, Newton stole more than £17,800 of goods from a home while the family was on holiday and in another, he stole a watch, which was never recovered, which had belonged to the victim’s late father.

Career criminal Newton, of Windermere Road, Clacton, whose offending goes back to 2003, was told by Judge Anthony Goldstaub in all Newton’s years of offending, he had never been subjected to a lengthy prison sentence, but “now is the time”.

He also told Newton his offending record was “regrettable”, adding: “I must take into account the anger and pain suffered by householders in the violation of their personal refuge.

“In one case, you stole a watch belonging to the victim’s late father, which she understandably felt a connection to her father through.

“That connection was smashed by your conduct and I can understand the grief that causes.”

Newton appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court yesterday and admitted three burglaries in Clacton and Holland on Sea.

He asked for 71 other offences to be taken into consideration in his sentencing. The court heard the first burglary took place between December 29 and January 1, in Marine Parade East, Clacton, when the family had left to celebrate the New Year.

Newton broke into the home through the back door and stole £17,830 in cash, jewellery and electrical items.

It included a Rado ceramic watch, which was owned by the victim’s father, valued at about £1,000.

Newton later tried to sell some of the jewellery to a pawn shop in Clacton.

Another burglary took place in Sladbury Lane, Great Holland, between December 23 and December 27, while the owner was spending Christmas with family.

Newton stole earrings and other jewellery, as well as a 42ins TV, but he was caught when forensic officers found his blood on the front door.

His thumbprint was also found at the back of the house.

In the third incident, Newton broke into the home of an 86-yearold disabled man and stole cash.

When interviewed by police, Newton was found to be wearing some of the jewellery which had been stolen during the three burglaries.

Officers also found many other items hidden in his home.

Judge Goldstaub did not order Newton to pay any compensation, adding: “I hope in this late stage of his career he will try to rehabilitate himself.

“I hope he will do that debtfree.”