Sheffield Burglar Jailed After Falling Asleep in Skoda Fabia Stolen from Crookes Home

A Sheffield burglar has been handed a prison sentence of more than four years after a bizarre turn of events saw him fall asleep inside the car he had just stolen during a residential break-in. Wayne Smith, of Raisen Hall Road, was arrested at the scene after the vehicle's owner discovered him asleep in the driver's seat.

The incident occurred in the suburb of Crookes, where Smith gained entry to a residential property. After searching the home and stealing personal belongings, he located the keys to a Skoda Fabia parked outside. However, after taking the car, Smith's get-away came to an abrupt halt when he fell sound asleep inside the vehicle. The homeowners woke up to find the burglar asleep in their car and immediately alerted police.

Appearing in court, Smith was sentenced to four years and two months in prison for burglary and theft. The judge remarked on the seriousness of residential burglary, emphasizing the lasting impact it has on victims' sense of security in their own homes. Police welcomed the sentence, noting that Smith is a repeat offender whose prompt arrest prevented further criminal activity in the area.