Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Monday 31st March 2025, at 15:45hrs
A serial burglar who targeted student homes in Durham City during the Christmas break has been jailed for over seven years, after leaving behind a crucial piece of evidence: his own prison identification card.
Barry Lowery, 49, embarked on a spree of burglaries, targeting properties on Summerville, John Street, Hawthorn Terrace, and Laburnum Avenue.
He stole a range of items, including electronics, cash, women’s underwear, and irreplaceable sentimental jewellery, causing significant distress to his victims.
However, Lowery’s criminal enterprise was undone by an astonishing blunder. He left his snapped prison ID card in the window of one of the burgled properties, a clear and undeniable link to the crime.
This oversight provided police with a vital piece of evidence.
Adding to his downfall, Lowery was also confronted by one of his victims inside her bedroom. The victim later positively identified him, further solidifying the case against him.
Lowery was arrested and charged with four burglaries, and appeared at Durham Crown Court on Friday, March 28.
He pleaded guilty to all charges and was sentenced to seven years and four months in prison. He also received a conditional discharge for possession of a controlled drug.
PC Mike White, who led the investigation, expressed his disdain for Lowery’s actions, stating,
“Lowery is a despicable criminal who is clearly never going to change. However, we hope this lengthy custodial sentence gives the public some peace of mind now he’s back behind bars.”
Temporary Detective Sergeant Ryan Harrison highlighted the impact of Lowery’s crimes, saying,
“Lowery targeted student properties in Durham City, stealing a significant number of items, including those of sentimental value that can never be replaced.”
He emphasized the importance of securing properties and reporting suspicious activity.
The case serves as a stark reminder to criminals that even the smallest mistakes can lead to their capture.
The carelessly discarded prison ID card played a pivotal role in bringing Lowery to justice, emphasizing the importance of even seemingly insignificant details in criminal investigations.
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