Woman jailed for burgling home of vulnerable couple in Birmingham

Brenda Collins was caught in the Yardley home of a man, who is registered blind and disabled, while his wife was out shopping.

The 50-year-old came to Birmingham on a train from London in October last year and was found in the couple's bedroom in their sheltered housing accommodation by their grandson.

The wife had left the front door unlocked but closed, as they were expecting a visit from their grandson and due to the man’s mobility and sight issues this was easier for him.

Their grandson arrived shortly after and noticed the door slightly ajar. He then noticed someone in his grandparent’s bedroom but presumed it was his grandmother. When he realised she was still out he went to investigate and saw Collins trying to escape.

He followed her down a fire exit and stopped her while he called the police.

Shortly after, the wife returned and confirmed that items in the bedroom had been disturbed.

Officers attended and Collins was arrested and subsequently charged with burglary.

Collins, of no fixed address, was on licence from prison. She pleaded guilty to burglary on May 10 and was sentenced to four years and six months.

DC Alan Reeves, from our force CID, said: “This was a ruthless crime against a vulnerable man. She callously chose to target the sheltered accommodation and managed to get through the security controlled door.

“Her actions were cruel and frightening for the couple once they realised what had happened. Even though nothing was taken, the intent was there but she was interrupted by the couple’s grandson whose quick-thinking meant we were able to arrest her and bring her to justice for this crime.

“I hope the jail term offers some comfort to them as they try and put this horrible ordeal behind them."