Conman who tricked Bricket Wood resident jailed (From St Albans & Harpenden Review)

Distraction burglar made off in victim's car

5:30pm Tuesday 21st February 2012 in News By Mike Wright

A distraction burglar has been sentenced to more than four years in jail for tricking a Bricket Wood resident before stealing his car.

Christopher Wickens, 32 and of no fixed abode, conned his victim in June by telling them that he needed to borrow a piece of paper to write a note.

While the victim was distracted, Wickens removed various items and cash, then made off in the victim’s Citroen Saxo.

Wickens was charged with distraction burglary and theft of motor vehicle in August.

Following trial at Luton Crown Court, which started on February 8, he was found guilty last week.

He was sentenced to four and a half years in prison.

Detective Constable Jill Green from Operation Manhunt said: "I’d like to thank members of public in the area who were vigilant and vital in securing this conviction, particularly a local postman and a neighbour of the victim, both of whom were able to give information to the police which greatly assisted in the investigation and conviction.

"This just highlights the importance of people looking out for their neighbours and making note of people acting suspiciously around the houses of the older people in the community.

"The judge clearly saw the seriousness of this incident and gave Wickens a long sentence for the crime."