Birmingham's 'Breeze Block Burglar' Matthew Boreland Pleads Guilty to Selly Park Break-In

BIRMINGHAM, West Midlands — Matthew Boreland, a 40-year-old serial burglar known locally as the “breeze block burglar,” has confessed to his latest crimes in Birmingham Crown Court. Boreland, who has a history of smashing his way into residential properties, pleaded guilty to charges of burglary and theft following an incident in the Selly Park area of the city.

The Latest Offence and Modus Operandi

On April 14, 2025, Boreland targeted a residential property in Selly Park, Birmingham. During the break-in, he stole a bag, personal documents, alcohol, and two sets of keys. Shortly thereafter, he used the stolen keys to take a Toyota Yaris from the property. He was subsequently apprehended and charged with both residential burglary and vehicle theft.

Boreland acquired his moniker from West Midlands investigators due to his distinctive method of entry. In previous offences, he utilized heavy breeze blocks or concrete slabs to shatter glass patio doors or windows, allowing him swift access to high-value items, including car keys. In 2023, he was jailed for three and a half years for a similar offence in Henley-in-Arden, where he smashed his way into a home to steal an Audi.

'Third-Strike' Classification and Institutionalisation Concerns

Because of his extensive record of residential burglaries, Boreland’s latest conviction classifies him as a “third-strike” offender under UK sentencing guidelines. This classification carries a mandatory minimum sentence of three years in custody, unless the defence can establish exceptional circumstances that would make such a term unjust.

During the court proceedings, Boreland’s defence counsel requested an adjournment to allow for the compilation of psychiatric and pre-sentence reports. The defence argued that Boreland struggles severely with alcohol addiction and faces significant difficulties adapting to life outside of prison. The court heard concerns that Boreland has become institutionalised, finding it difficult to cope without the structure provided by custody, which has repeatedly contributed to his cycle of reoffending.