A Southampton man stole a silver BMW during a crime spree carried out in four towns and villages on the same night.

Shane Robert Michael Flanagan-Stansbridge, 22, has been jailed for three years for burglary, five attempted burglaries, and vehicle theft in the early hours of Sunday, March 17.

He was sentenced at Southampton Crown Court, having previously pleaded guilty to all seven offences.

The defendant, who had a previous conviction for robbery, targeted properties in Fair Oak, Eastleigh, Botley, and Hedge End. 

"From one address on Missenden Acres, Hedge End, Flanagan-Stansbridge stole a silver BMW, having gained entry to the owner’s home and taken the keys," said a police spokesperson.

"He also attempted to gain entry to another property on Sovereign Drive, Botley.

"There were further incidents at addresses on Angelica Gardens, Horton Heath, Selhurst Way, Fair Oak, and Jenkyns Close, Botley."

The defendant was jailed for three years at Southampton Crown CourtThe defendant was jailed for three years at Southampton Crown Court (Image: Newsquest)

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Police Staff Investigator Sarah Stewart, who led the investigation, added: “Burglary is one of the most intrusive crimes. 

“It can have untold, long-lasting impacts on the victims of these crimes. Nobody should have to feel unsafe in their own homes once behind closed doors.

“I am pleased that we are now in a position whereby Flanagan-Stansbridge will now be behind bars for a significant period of time following his guilty pleas.

“We hope that this result provides the victims in this instance reassurance that we have taken their case seriously and that we will do what we can to secure justice against those seeking to cause harm in our local communities.

“This sentence should send out a strong message to would-be offenders.

"We will find you, we will put you in front of the courts and you will have to face justice, and the consequences of your actions.

"Hampshire remains a hostile place for criminals and we will always do what we can to ensure that you are caught and that you are held accountable for your actions."

In 2018, Flanagan-Stansbridge was one of three men who took part in a robbery in Old Northam Road, Southampton.

Their victim was left with two air rifle pellets lodged in his head after a night out with a friend, who suffered a fractured finger during the same attack.

Flanagan-Stansbridge and his two co-defendants admitted wounding without intent, robbery, and attempted robbery.

They were seen laughing and joking as they left Southampton Crown Court after receiving suspended prison sentences.

Later it emerged the Attorney General’s Office had been asked to review their sentences under the unduly lenient sentence system.