A serial burglar who fled to Spain after stealing property worth around £914,000 has been jailed for eight years.

Ilford Recorder: Items found in the police search at addresses linked to the Buisson. Picture: Essex PoliceItems found in the police search at addresses linked to the Buisson. Picture: Essex Police (Image: Archant)

David Buisson, who is linked to addresses in Woodford Green and Ongar stole cash and jewellery from 12 homes and businesses in Redbridge, Epping Forest and Canvey between December 2015 and June 2017.

After investigating the incidents, police officers had enough evidence to obtain a search warrant and found tools and items used for lock picking and a stolen drone and jewellery.

A computer was also seized and internet history showed searches had been made on some of the addresses that were later burgled.

Though further investigations, Essex Police located Buisson in Spain and the 49-year-old was arrested with support from the National Crime Agency, under a European Arrest Warrant in Fuengirola in April this year.

He admitted 11 burglaries and two attempted burglaries when he appeared at Basildon Crown Court on July 10 and was jailed today, Friday, September 14, for a total of eight years.

He was also made the subject of a serious crime prevention order, to run for five years to start upon his release.

A forfeiture and destruction order was also made for the lock picking tools.

Buisson denied three burglaries, conspiracy to commit burglary, possession of cannabis with intent to supply and possession of a firearm without a certificate.

The judge ordered for these to lie on file.

Det Insp Rob Staples said: “The invasion of your home by burglars can be incredibly impactive and we recognise the distress this can cause.

“The detectives involved in this complex investigation left no stone unturned to identify and locate David Buisson to hold him to account for his part in these offences.

“Investigating officers Det Sgt David Wilkinson and Det Con Russ Chamberlain, along with their colleagues across the force, have worked tirelessly on this case and worked closely with law enforcement colleagues both here in the UK and in Spain.

“I am pleased for the victims that the man responsible for these burglaries has been brought to justice, and I hope they find some comfort knowing he has been imprisoned.”

A hearing will be held under the Proceeds of Crime Act.