A THIEF who raided an Oxford home and stole cash, a laptop and jewellery has been jailed for three years. 

Michael Gallagher, 37, of Southfield Park, Bartlemas Close, Oxford, pleaded guilty at Oxford Crown Court to one count of burglary on Friday.

He was handed a three-year custodial sentence at the same court on Monday. 

Gallagher broke into the house in Staverton Road on June 14 and stole the items - but was identified by CCTV footage and arrested the following day. 

Investigating officer PC Dave Mathieson, based at St Aldates Police Station, said: “We take reports of burglary seriously and this conviction shows how an investigation can lead to a substantial sentence.

“Burglary is an invasive crime which can lead to victims to feel unsafe in their own homes and we continue to work to ensure those responsible for such offences are brought to face justice.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the victim in this case and witnesses who came forward.”

Operation Bastion Lead Detective Sergeant James Humphries, based at St Aldates Police Station, said: “Due to the diligence and determination of the investigating officer in this case, Gallagher had no other option but to plead guilty at the earliest opportunity.

“Operation Bastion focuses on preventing, investigating and prosecuting those who are involved in burglaries.”