A Bedford drug dealer who stole from elderly neighbours has been jailed for six years after pleading guilty to possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, namely cocaine and heroin, dwelling burglary and aggravated vehicle taking.
James Lang, 38, of Bents Close, Clapham, Bedford, befriended his elderly neighbours by doing odd jobs for them. When they were on holiday, he burgled their home, stealing cash and using their vehicle back in September 2018.
He was spotted by other neighbours who notified the owners when they returned.
Later that month Lang was seen discarding an object near his home. He was arrested and following a search of the area and his home address, police found drugs and drug paraphernalia, including cocaine, heroin and other Class A drugs.
Detective Constable Kevin Howes said: “Lang is a nasty individual so we are delighted he has been put behind bars for a substantial amount of time. Not only did he pedal (sic) illegal and dangerous substances, he also took advantage of the trust of his kind elderly neighbours.
“We’re committed to protecting people and fighting crime in our county by tackling individuals such as Lang and we hope this sends a message to others, that if you commit crime, we will pursue you and your freedom will be taken away.”
At Luton Crown Court on 10 January, Lang was sentenced to three years and four months for the drugs offences, serving three years consecutively for the burglary offence.
He was also sentenced to eight months in prison for vehicle theft, which will also be served concurrently.
He was also disqualified from driving for a year having driven with no license and no insurance.
