New Forest Residential Burglary: Two Convicted and Sentenced

Two individuals have been convicted for their involvement in a residential burglary that took place on 27 September, 2022, in Pennington, New Forest. The culprits, Benjamin Edward Jenkins, 47, of no fixed abode, and Rebecca Louise Conlan, 42, of Stapleford Close, Romsey, were found guilty during a hearing at Southampton Crown Court on 11 October, 2023.

The incident unfolded when Jenkins and Conlan forcibly entered a residence on Ramley Road in Pennington around 9:45pm. They gained access through a bathroom window, subsequently conducting a messy search of the property. Conlan made off with a quantity of jewellery, while they both attempted to steal a vintage motorcycle from an unattached garage on the premises.

The police swiftly responded to the scene and located Jenkins and Conlan hiding at the rear of the property, concealed within an extensive and overgrown garden.

Crucial forensic evidence obtained from inside the bathroom window belonged to Benjamin Jenkins. Furthermore, jewellery that belonged to one of the victims’ family members was discovered inside a backpack carried by Rebecca Conlan.

Additional evidence was gleaned from confiscated mobile phones, revealing messages exchanged between the two culprits discussing plans to break in and steal property from the Pennington address and another location where Jenkins was staying in Totton. Details of motorcycle parts dealers were also uncovered, with subsequent enquiries confirming their involvement in selling parts that the victim identified as being from the Pennington property.

The pair previously appeared before Southampton Crown Court on 20 September, where they pleaded guilty to the charges brought against them. Benjamin Jenkins was convicted of burglary dwelling and theft from a dwelling, while Rebecca Conlan was convicted of burglary non-dwelling and handling stolen goods.

During the sentencing hearing held on 11 October, Benjamin Jenkins was handed an 18 month custodial sentence, and Rebecca Conlan received an eight month prison sentence for her role in the burglary.

Detective Constable Rob Harnett commented on the case, stating, “Burglary is such an intrusive crime for anyone who has been a victim, but thankfully, no one was present in the address at the time that the offences were committed.

“The pair were calculated in their actions and showed clear motivation to commit burglary at the two address known to Jenkins; having already sold a number of items stolen from the property in Pennington.

“We are hopeful that news that the pair are now behind bars is welcomed by the local community, safe in the knowledge that they will not be out on the streets for a prolonged period. We will continue to relentlessly pursue criminals who cause harm in our communities and bring those responsible to justice.

“As a reminder to local residents, please remember to shut, and lock, all windows – no matter how small they are – to ensure that access to your property is secure at all times when you’re not in.”

Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities through the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website or by calling 101. In emergencies or when a crime is in progress, dial 999immediately to alert the police.