Ring Doorbell footage shows burglar dislodge camera

Sam Norman, 35, can be seen using a pole to try and dislodge the camera at a home in Salt Boxes in Pivin, near Pershore, during an attempted burglary on July 10.

The property was under renovation at the time and he also gained entry to a shed.

However, he escaped empty-handed when the homeowners confronted him, alerted to his presence by the security system. The footage, which helped secure his conviction, shows him riding up on his bike before he notices the camera, looking straight at the Ring Doorbell camera.

The would-be burglar of Hollyblue Close, Drakes Broughton, then returns, his grey hood pulled up over his face before he peers in a green wheelie bin and uses a pole to try and dislodge the camera. He succeeds in dislodging the camera - but not before it has recorded his face. DI Dave Knight of South Worcestershire Proactive CID has previously spoken of the value of these cameras in helping West Mercia Police catch and lock up burglars swiftly. 

A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said: "There was a confrontation in the garden. He was trying to get into the house and activated the Ring Doorbell camera and then tried to move the camera. The homeowner challenged him and he apologised and cycled off. He did not get away with any property."

Norman pleaded guilty straight away after officers from the Proactive CID team identified the defendant from the CCTV footage.

In total, he admitted three offences - an attempted burglary at Pinvin and two non-dwelling burglaries.

When officers attended his home address, he tried to escape but was detained after a short pursuit.

While in custody it was also established that Norman was involved in a burglary at Arc in Terrace Road, Pershore on June 27 where he forced entry during daylight hours before being disturbed and making off. 

Norman received an 18-week prison sentence suspended for 18 months. He has also been placed on a 12 week curfew between 9pm and 8.30am