A BURGLAR was arrested after a police dog picked up his scent at the crime scene – and led officers straight to his front door.

Paul Reay, 37, stole a bicycle that belonged to the Red Cross when he broke into a house in South Hill Crescent, Sunderland, last November.

When officers arrived at the scene there appeared to be little evidence left behind, but Police Dog Roxy had a look around and quickly smelled something suspicious.

The Belgian Malinois picked up a scent and led officers across the road to a nearby street and straight to the front door where Reay was found inside.

Officers retrieved the stolen bike which was found at the address.

Reay, of no fixed abode, was detained and later charged with burglary. On Friday he pleaded guilty to the offence at Newcastle Crown Court and was jailed for two years and five months.

Detective Chief Inspector Sean Mcguigan, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is another case that highlights the key role that our Dog Section plays within the Force.

“When we arrived at the scene, it was clear than an intruder had carried out an untidy search but it was initially unclear if anything evidentially had been left.

“But PD Roxy was quick to help and picked up a scent – leading officers across the road and directly to the front door of another house on a nearby street.

“Inside we were delighted to locate the stolen bike and find Paul Reay, who has now been brought to justice for committing the burglary.

“I’d like to thank everybody involved in this case, who showed outstanding teamwork, and hope this outcome offers comfort and reassurance to the victim.”