A SOMERSET man has been jailed for 39 months for a series of burglaries at night-time homes where the owners were asleep.

Dariusz Lenartowicz, 34, of Yeovil, pleaded guilty to targeting four homes between Thursday, March 21, and Thursday, April 4.

Taunton Crown Court heard on Friday that items Lenartowicz stole included laptop and tablet computers, mobile phones, bank cards, a games console and a camera.

He admitted four counts of fraud after using the cards to make purchases as well as one count of theft and one of possessing a bladed article.

Following the case, DC Jon Hooper said: "These were overnight burglaries, in most cases while the householders slept, causing an enormous amount of upset and distress.

"I hope this sentence reassures the families affected by these crimes."

DC Hooper added that the investigation was helped by the householders keeping the serial numbers of electrical goods, meaning that officers were able to prove property seized from Lenartowicz had been stolen.

You can help to deter thieves by:

*locking doors and windows and setting any alarm overnight, as well as when you go out.

*keeping a note of serial numbers.

*permanently marking property with your postcode.

*taking photographs of items of particular financial or sentimental value.

*joining Neighbourhood Watch.