Police in Swansea traced a burglary suspect through DNA technology after he left a half-eaten snack at the scene of his crime.
The burglary happened at a house in Rodney Street in the city centre during the early hours of 31st May which was the home of a student from Hong Kong who was getting ready to return home after completing her studies.
The property was ransacked and various items – including the 22-year-old victim’s packed suitcases containing her clothes and shoes – were taken.
A crime scene investigation took place at the house which found a piece of beef jerky discarded on the floor. Forensic tests were carried out which contained the full DNA profile of suspect Kristian Dee Evans, aged 33, from the Gorseinon area.
He was arrested and found still in possession of the three suitcases which he had stolen. Evans was charged with the burglary and appeared at Swansea Crown Court where he was sentenced to three years in prison after pleading guilty.
Detective Inspector Trudi Meyrick, who is leading a burglary operation in Swansea and Neath Port Talbot, said:
“Being a victim of burglary is a dreadfully upsetting experience and in this case her home had been ransacked and all her personal belongings were stolen as they were packed up ready to be taken back home to Hong Kong.
“An investigation got underway and during the crime scene investigation it became apparent that the piece of beef jerky had been taken from the kitchen, half consumed and discarded on the floor. It was forensically examined and contained the full DNA profile of Evans who was quickly traced and arrested for the burglary.
“Whenever a burglary is reported we use every tool available to us to try and identify a suspect. Forensic technology is an important way of catching burglary suspect and in this case has resulted in us putting the suspect before the court to receive a prison sentence.”
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