Man jailed over hair salon and home burglary

A man has been jailed over a series of burglaries in Stoke-on-Trent which saw him steal a hairdryer and clippers from a hair salon.

Mark Stokes, 49, of Mayer Street, Stoke-on-Trent, was jailed for six years on Thursday (3 February) at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, after admitting one count of burglary, one count of aggravated burglary and attempted burglary, at an earlier hearing.

The court heard how Stokes targeted the salon, off Ash Bank Road, in the early hours of Saturday 1 January 2022, where he made off with an iPad Air, Dyson hairdryer and cordless clippers.

He was spotted by a witness leaving the salon via a side gate.

Earlier that day, Stokes had entered a property in the Bucknall area and threatened the occupier into handing over jewellery including a silver locket and a gold watch.

Stokes went on to damage another nearby property in an attempt to gain access, but was unsuccessful as the occupants spotted him.

He was arrested by officers a short time later and subsequently charged.

The stolen items were not recovered.

Speaking following Stokes’ sentencing, PC Isobel Holliday of Staffordshire Police, said: “Stokes’ offences were plentiful and each one had a profound impact on those targeted.

“We’re really pleased with the sentence handed to him by the court.

“We hope it acts as a deterrent for anyone wishing to commit similar crimes in our county.”

If you are concerned about burglary in your area, contact us on 101, or call 999 in an emergency.

For burglary prevention advice, visit: Protecting your home from crime | Crime prevention | Staffordshire Police