Burnley Cleaner Jailed for Stealing £11,000 Worth of Jewellery
A Burnley cleaner has been locked up for a year after swiping £11,000 worth of precious jewellery from a property he worked in.
Luxury Loot Includes Gucci Watch and Gold Chains
On November 17, police were called to a Burnley home where a shocking haul of stolen jewellery was reported missing. The stolen items included:
- A silver stainless steel Gucci watch
- Three 9 Karat gold bracelets
- A gold pendant with sapphire and diamond, 14 Karat
- A 9 Karat gold Opal/sapphire ring
- An oblong Alexandrite pendant with 18 Karat gold chain
- An 18-inch Gucci gold chain
- An 18-inch birdcage 14 Karat gold chain
- A golden Opal and diamond ring
Cleaner Caught on CCTV Trying to Sell Stolen Goods
Cops zeroed in on Darren Thorpe, 54, who worked as the cleaner at the property. He was spotted on CCTV at a local cash shop attempting to sell some of the hot items.
Thorpe, from Parklands View, Burnley, was charged with theft and later admitted to handling stolen goods at Burnley Crown Court earlier this year. Last week, the same court jailed him for 12 months.
Victim Speaks Out: Heartbreaking Loss Beyond Money
“Before November 17, 2022, I never thought crime would happen to me. But this time, I was the victim,” the homeowner told the court.
“It’s not just the items that were stolen – it’s the sentimental memories attached to them. These pieces reminded me of my late husband of 40 years and brought me closer to him.
“Those who committed this crime didn’t just steal jewellery, they took a part of my priceless memories. That’s what hurts the most.”
“I’m saddened for those involved, especially as the victim is an elderly woman who trusted people. This crime has left me anxious and unable to trust my own judgement. I’ve lost sleep worrying about threats or calls from the criminals.”
“It’s not the money, it’s the emotional pain that’s unbearable.”
PC Fraz Usman from Burnley Police said: “Thorpe betrayed a vulnerable victim’s trust in a callous crime. The impact on her is clear and lasting. We’re pleased he’s been convicted and is now being held accountable.”
Police Appeal for Help
Authorities urge anyone who spots the described jewellery to come forward. Pawn shop owners are especially asked to report if they have been offered similar pieces since November 17.
