Norwich burglar used multi-storey car park to scout targets

Daniel Grix, 46, forced a door and clambered between the escape staircase at the multi-storey car park on Rose Lane and the neighbouring Union Building offices of accountancy firm Aston Shaw.

Norwich Magistrates’ Court was told he had put a towel over his head and worn gloves in an unsuccessful attempt to hide his identity from CCTV cameras during the break-in on September 12 last year.

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Paul Brown, prosecuting, said he had used a fire exit before forcing entry to the offices but had subsequently been identified from security footage. 

Although no items had been stolen it was believed he had been in the process of targeting a stash of aftershave worth hundreds of pounds, he added.

Grix used a fire exit at Rose Lane car park in Norwich to access neighbouring offices (Image: Newsquest)

The court was told earlier the same day Grix had also been seen on CCTV attempting to break into a Toyota Aygo car and steal items in Argyle Street. 

Appearing via video link from HMP Peterborough where he has spent four months on remand for separate charges, he pleaded guilty to burglary with intent to steal and vehicle interference. 

Michael Cole, mitigating, admitted he had a “lamentable list of previous convictions”. 

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“I would describe him as amoral rather than immoral in that when he sees something he simply tries to take it.

“He went into these premises on an exploratory voyage.” 

Jailing him for 12 weeks, Deputy District Judge Lisa Towell told him: “You have an inevitable record of previous offences and I have no doubt that, although you are not charged with theft, you entered this property with the intention to steal.

“Your record means this is so serious only a custodial sentence is appropriate.”