A BURGLAR who attempted to break into house while the occupants were sleeping inside has been jailed.

Michael Miller, of Eversley in Widnes, was handed two years behind bars at Liverpool Crown Court on Friday, February 12.

The 29-year-old was one of two offenders who targeted an address on Halebank Road via an insecure rear window in the early hours of Monday, September 21.

While the homeowners were woken by their dog barking, they did not think anything of it and went back to sleep.

But upon reviewing CCTV cameras fitted in the property the next morning, the footage revealed that two men had attempted to break in before fleeing empty handed.

Police issued a public appeal for information over Miller’s whereabouts, and he was arrested in a taxi on Queens Drive in Liverpool four days before Christmas.

He admitted burglary in court last week, and was also told to pay a £156 victim surcharge.

Police constable Chris Bosward, who led the investigation, said: “This is a fantastic result, and I hope it provides reassurance to the local community and some closure to the victims.

“While the offenders were unsuccessful in their attempts to break into the address, to go through such an experience is extremely traumatic and it can have lasting repercussions.

“Throughout the investigation, Miller has done all could in his failed attempts to avoid justice – but as a result of our determination and partnership work with neighbouring forces, he is now facing the consequences of his actions.

“I would like to take this as an opportunity thank all those who came forward and provided information during the investigation and helped us to locate Miller.”

Cheshire police and crime commissioner David Keane added: “I would like to thank all of the officers involved in this case for their dedication and hard work.

“Everyone has the right to feel safe in their own home, to be a victim of burglary or attempted burglary is a deeply upsetting experience.

“I hope that the outcome of the investigation provides reassurance to residents in Widnes, and also acts as a warning to anyone looking to commit such crimes.”