A PERSISTENT burglar has been sentenced for more than two years in prison for entering properties and having a bladed article in a public place.

Leondis Zogunovs, of no fixed abode, was found guilty by a unanimous jury on March 15, after a five day trial at Reading Crown Court.

The 40-year-old has been sentenced to two years and 10 months imprisonment for two counts of burglary, two counts of attempted burglary and one count of having an article with a blade in a public place.

On October 20, Zogunovs made three attempts to enter properties in Berkshire and Oxfordshire.

At 2.30 am, the man stole a small amount of cash from a property in Binfield Heath and made numerous attempts to open the windows.

On the same day at 4.30am, the man attended a property in Stoke Row, where he attempted but failed to enter.

He also forced his way into a property in Binfield Heath and stole a quantity of foreign money.

Finally, on 23 October, Zogunovs tried to force his way into a house in Bradfield Southend.

On this occasion, the occupants disturbed Zogunovs who then fled the scene.

Thames Valley Police officers then arrested Zogunovs and he was charged on October 24, for possessing three screwdrivers and a kitchen knife.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Daniel Tibble said: “Forensic evidence obtained at the scenes conclusively determined that two of the screwdrivers found in Zogunovs’ possession at the time of his arrest were used during the offences in Stoke Row and Bradfield.

“When officers conducted a further search of the defendant, he was found in possession of a pair of gloves and a torch, as well as a receipt for an exchange of the foreign currency that he stole.

“Further examination of CCTV showed Zogunovs attempting to break into one of the properties.

“This was a thorough investigation with hard work from many teams within Thames Valley Police, and support from the victims.

“I am pleased that the jury has found Zogunovs guilty and he has now been jailed.”