Discarded Pepsi Can

The discovery and forensic analysis of a discarded can of Pepsi has led to a Doncaster burglar being convicted and jailed.

Daniel Irvin ransacked two properties in the same street in Thorne by smashing a window to gain entry before stealing high value items, including a TV, jewellery, watches and a touch screen tablet.

However, Irvin's crimes didn't go undetected and after a Pepsi can, which he'd stolen from one of his victim's fridges, was found near the scene of the burglary, it was recovered and analysed by crime scene investigators leading to his identification.

Detective Constable Rachael Gilsenan also found a ring stolen from one of the burglaries being worn by a relative of Irvin's.

This was seized and positively identified as belonging to the burglary victim.

The gathering of CCTV evidence also led to a positive identification for Irwin, who was subsequently charged with two burglaries and one count of attempted burglary.

After pleading not guilty to all offences, Irwin, 39, of no fixed abode, was found guilty of two counts of burglary and not guilty of the attempted burglary following a trial at Sheffield Crown Court last week.

Last Thursday (13 November) at the conclusion of his trial, Irwin was jailed for three years.