Vandal Barry Close Jailed After Rampage and Assault on Police
Barry Close, 43, sparked chaos on the night of September 16 in San Diego Road. Police were called after he smashed up a stairwell, cracked a window with a paving slab, and trashed a bike. Officers found him in the garden and arrested him on the spot.
Violent Outburst in Custody
While being taken to custody, Close elbowed a police officer. He didn’t stop there—he flooded his cell with toilet water and caused further damage. With no fixed address, Close was slapped with charges including assaulting an emergency worker and two counts of criminal damage.
18 Months Behind Bars – Plus a Burglary Past Catches Up
During his Magistrates’ hearing on September 18, Close admitted all offences. Yesterday, at Portsmouth Crown Court, the judge jailed him for 18 months. This sentence activated a previously suspended term from August for a £30,000 jewellery theft from Stoke Emporium.
“Barry Close is a habitual offender who persistently causes issues for the community and businesses in Gosport,” said Acting Sergeant Jon Stapenhill. “Police are committed to relentlessly pursuing these kinds of individuals and making Gosport a hostile place for them. They need to know that we will take robust action if they continue to offend. I hope this result reassures the community of our commitment.”
