Stolen Art Watch, Brighton Antiques Knocker Jailed and Banned From Knocking Doors !!

Brighton Antiques Knockers, They Haven't Gone Away You Know !!!

Kevin Douglas, (Dob: 07-03-1957) of Shirley Drive, Hove.

On Monday 15th December 2009 Brighton Antiques Knocker Kevin Douglas cold called the home of an elderly couple, a 76 year old female and her 84 year old husband along St Peter's Square, Hammersmith.

He claimed that he was looking to buy old books and was invited in. Once inside Kevin Douglas took advantage of the age of his victims and without invitation, proceeded to walk into several private areas, including the victim's bedrooms.

He then rummaged through their personal possessions and managed to steal two sentimental antique watches that have not been recovered.

After a trial Kevin Douglas, 54 years (Dob 07-03-1957) of Shirley Drive, Hove, East Sussex was convicted on Monday 21st February at Kingston Crown Court and remanded in custody.

On Tuesday March 15th 2011 Kevin Douglas was sentenced to three and a half years jailtime at Kingston Crown Court following a distraction burglary in Hammersmith. He was given an ASBO to run indefinitely and ordered to pay compensation costs of £100 to his elderly victims.

Douglas will not be allowed to enter any private dwelling unless belonging to family or friends without prior written permission from the owner.

Furthermore if any sale takes place, Douglas is to provide the vendor with a receipt and retain an exact copy of the receipt for 5 years from date of issue.

Detective Sergeant Paul Mitchell, of the Metropolitan Police’s burglary squad at Hammersmith Police Station, said: "This is a satisfying conclusion to what was a particularly nasty crime perpetrated against a thoroughly decent, elderly couple.

“Kevin Douglas deliberately targeted what he thought would be easy prey and his actions were despicable.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the victims of this crime who have showed dignity, courage and patience in a protracted case that saw them giving evidence over two years after the offence was committed".

Police advise people not to let cold callers into their homes and check their identities if they are from a company.

DS Mitchell said: “If you have antiques to sell go to a reputable dealer and don't run the risk of being duped by unscrupulous individuals like Mr Douglas.”