A BURGLAR who embarked on a spree of raids targeted five homes in Colchester and snatched possessions including a drone and an ornamental knife.

Thomas Newman, 26, has been warned to expect a prison sentence after he admitted stealing thousands of pounds worth of goods from homes across Colchester.

Chelmsford Crown Court heard he embarked on his spree of burglaries between June 3 and June 6 this year.

He entered homes in Aspen Road, Dahlia Walk, Churnwood Road, Artillery Street and Redwood Close, stealing an eclectic mix of personal possessions.

Stolen items included cameras, a Scottish ornamental knife, a games console, a go-pro camera, speakers and a drone.

He also snatched numerous bank cards, purses, phones, sets of keys and watches.

Newman, of no fixed address, admitted five counts of burglary at a hearing yesterday.

Judge Christopher Morgan ordered a pre-sentence report be prepared by the probation service, but warned the thief to expect a custodial sentence.

Newman, who spoke in court to confirm his identity and to enter his guilty pleas, remains in custody at Chelmsford prison.

Addressing him directly, Judge Morgan said: “Although these are serious matters and custody will be considered, the report can consider all sentencing options.

“You will come back for sentence on August 5.

“I’m ordering a pre-sentence report in your case.

“I’m aware of your limited criminal background, but these are serious matters and the court will have to consider custody.

“But that decision will be made once the pre-sentence report and any other information is before the sentencing judge.

“Please don’t go downstairs thinking because there’s a report you will avoid custody.

“That isn’t the position. You will be produced at court, [your barrister] will be in attendance.

“If August 5 changes for any reason, you will be notified and produced on the rearranged date.

“You are remanded in custody.”