A man who broke into four pharmacies in Crawley and stole a large amount of prescription drugs has been jailed for 23 months.

David Pritchard, 30, of no fixed address, forced his way into Kamsons Pharmacy in Tilgate Parade, Kamsons Pharmacy in Furnace Parade, Kamsons Pharmacy in Brighton Road and Geddes Pharmacy in Three Bridges Road between March 22 and April 11.

He pleaded guilty to all the offences and was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court. He also breached a suspended sentence order. Investigating officer, detective constable Jenny Balmont of Crawley CID, said Pritchard was identified through CCTV footage and witness statements.

“We acted quickly to gather as much evidence as possible to present to the Crown Prosecution Service to authorise charges, ensuring the business community was protected from further offences,” Balmont said.

“I’d like to thank the members of the public who reported these incidents to us, and would urge anyone who witnesses any suspicious activity to continue to contact police online or via 101 – or dial 999 in an emergency or if you witness a crime in action.”