A Spennymoor man has admitted an attempted burglary spree after he was found with stolen property in his pocket.

Jack Riddell was caught by officers on Friday night (November 25) after five properties were targeted in Spennymoor.

Residents in Warwick Close, The Woodlands, Witton Drive, and Tolmie Close were affected.

Officers quickly tracked the 21-year-old down and arrested him after carrying out a search and finding stolen keys in his coat pocket.

Riddell, of Sledmore Drive was charged with four counts of attempt burglary and one count of burglary.

He pleaded guilty to all five charges at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates court today (November 28).

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Detective Constable Joshua Chew, from South Durham CID said: “I would like to thank the residents for the speed in which they reported the thefts which allowed us the prompt arrest of Riddell and subsequent discovery of stolen property.

“This is however a timely reminder to homeowners to keep valuables out of sight and to ensure you lock all doors to deter criminals from targeting you.”

Riddell will next appear at Durham Crown court on Wednesday, December 21 for sentencing.

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