A Canterbury man has been jailed for more than two years after a rapid police response saw him apprehended within minutes of breaking into a Herne Bay home. Clifford Airey, 61, was sentenced to 876 days’ imprisonment at Canterbury Crown Court on Tuesday, February 17, following a series of events that began with an emergency call just weeks earlier.
The incident unfolded on the morning of Monday, January 12, when a resident reported an intruder smashing a window to gain entry to her property. Kent Police patrols reached the scene in just four minutes, though Airey had already attempted to flee. His escape was short-lived as local witnesses directed officers toward his path, leading to a brief foot pursuit and his subsequent arrest.
During the chase, Airey discarded two screwdrivers in a nearby bush, which were later recovered by investigators. A search of his person revealed a haul of stolen items belonging to the victim, including her passport, a bus card, car keys, and £385 in cash.
Airey, from Canterbury, pleaded guilty to four charges, including burglary and going equipped for theft, during his initial appearance at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court the day after his arrest. His sentencing marks a decisive conclusion to a case defined by immediate police intervention and vital assistance from the public.