Jailed: Salford Burglar Caught by Forensic DNA on Garden Knife After Second Daylight Break-In

A serial burglar from Salford has been jailed for over two years after being caught through a combination of forensic DNA testing and CCTV analysis. Craig Marsden, 54, of Martin Street, Salford, was sentenced at Chester Crown Court to two years and four months in prison after pleading guilty to two counts of residential burglary.

The prosecution detailed how Marsden targeted two homes in Disley and Macclesfield, displaying a complete disregard for the impact of his crimes on the homeowners. Police revealed that Marsden even committed his second offense in broad daylight despite having already been arrested for the first break-in.

Forensic Breakthrough in Disley

The first burglary occurred on November 30, 2023, at a property on Hollinwood Road in Disley. The homeowner returned home around 11:20 am to find their rear patio door shattered, rooms ransacked, and various personal items missing. During the crime scene examination, officers discovered a kitchen knife placed on top of a plant pot in the garden, which the homeowner confirmed had been moved from the kitchen. Forensic teams swabbed the knife for DNA, which eventually yielded a match for Marsden, leading to his initial arrest in March 2024.

Brazen Second Offense on Lark Hall Crescent

While awaiting further legal proceedings, and having served an intervening custodial sentence for an unrelated matter, Marsden struck again on November 7, 2025. This time, he targeted a home on Lark Hall Crescent in Macclesfield. The occupant arrived home at 2:40 pm to find their back door open and several items stolen. Officers utilized local CCTV footage to identify Marsden, resulting in his arrest on November 11, 2025.

Cheshire Constabulary commended the forensic and investigative work that led to the conviction. A spokesperson noted that Marsden's actions showed an absolute lack of remorse, executing a second daylight burglary while knowing he was under active investigation.