CCTV evidence leads to serial burglar being jailed
A prolific burglar who committed a series of offences in the city and East Leicester areas has been jailed.
Between June and July this year, Shawn Tulley broke in or attempted to break in to commercial properties
His actions resulted in businesses and some community premises picking up the bill for damages worth thousands.
During 43-year-old Tulley’s crime spree he targeted five restaurants, a children’s nursery on two occasions, a community centre and a playcentre.
He was caught by officers after members of the public reported suspicious behaviour. Tulley had broken into a restaurant in St Martin’s Square where he had stolen two iPads, a laptop and two bottles of alcohol.
He was charged with six counts of burglary, three counts of attempted burglary and criminal damage.
At a hearing in July, he pleaded guilty to the offences and on Thursday (8 October) at Leicester Crown Court, Tulley, of no fixed address, was sentenced to two years and four months in prison.
Sergeant Sian Harris-Ley from East Leicester Neighbourhood Policing Area (NPA), said: “Extensive evidence was gathered following these reports which identified Tulley as the perpetrator.
“The CCTV evidence we gathered clearly showed Tulley committing the offences so he had no choice but to plead guilty.
“He was subsequently caught in the act after a tip-off from some members of the public who saw him acting suspiciously in the city.
“Within one week he targeted the same premises twice, on the first occasion he caused more than £1,000 worth of damage but didn’t gain entry.
During the second incident he did manage to break in and stole iPads and laptops, while in the premises food and drink items were emptied onto the kitchen floor, a carpet was ripped up and internal windows were damaged to gain access to the office area.
“Tulley has absolutely no regard for the devastation he leaves and the impact his actions have on these essential community services.
“He is a persistent offender who has shown no remorse for his actions. Burglary is an inherently serious offences involving trespass and invasion of property rights, the offences caused substantial losses and damage to multiple premises, including repair costs running into thousands.
“I am pleased Tulley has pleaded guilty to the offences, we hope the sentence gives him a chance to reflect on his behaviour and mend his ways.”
Leicestershire Police News - Published: 13:29 13/10/2026
