A MAN caught trying to deal heroin and crack cocaine in Chester has been put behind bars.

Jake Phillip Burrows, 22, of Maud street, Toxteth, was jailed for four years, six months, after committing a series of burglaries in the Liverpool area. He was also given a further two years, four months for possession with intent to supply class A drugs (heroin and crack cocaine) in Chester.

Burrows' burglary accomplice, a 17-year-old male from Toxteth, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared at Liverpool Youth Magistrates Court on Monday, July 18, and was sentenced to one year and three months behind bars.

Both defendants were convicted for 11 burglary offences committed in Mossley Hill and Aigburth areas on February 8. They targeted a number of properties on roads including Rose Lane, Brodie Avenue, Heatherdale Road, Avonmore Avenue and Lugard Road.

Merseyside Police Detective Constable Pete Murphy, of the Burglary Team (Operation Castle), said: “Being a victim of burglary can have a massive impact on the person and families affected as they have had their home invaded which is an awful experience to go through.

“I am pleased that both offenders will now spend time behind bars for their actions and I would continue to encourage people to reports any suspicious behaviour so we can take action.

“We are determined to keep reducing offences and the harm this causes across Merseyside, and we will act on information we receive.

“We encourage people to come forward if you know anything about suspected burglary and the sale of stolen goods where you are. We’ll act on all information provided.

"Burglary offences have decreased year on year across Merseyside thanks largely to Operation Castle, an operation targeted at reducing burglaries, bringing offenders to justice, and ultimately sparing residents the anguish of being a victim of burglary.

“We will continue to work proactively with communities and our partners to keep this progress going.”

For advice and protection against burglary, visit https://www.merseyside.police.uk/advice-and-protection/burglary-and-theft/

People can also report any concerns to police on 999 if a crime is in progress, or via 101, or via the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at https://crimestoppers-uk.org