A PROLIFIC burglar is behind bars following an attempted raid on a borough dentist's surgery.

James Kevin Alexander, 44 of no fixed abode appeared at Southend Magistrates' Court where he was sentenced to six months in prison.

An investigation into Alexander began earlier this year, following the burglary of a dental surgery in South Ockendon on 15 May. Officers were called to the business following reports that the intruder alarm had been disabled and arrived to find the windows had been smashed. On inspection, no items had been stolen.

Following CCTV enquiries, Alexander was identified as a suspect and was arrested on the 30 May.

After his arrest, Alexander claimed that he was in hospital on the day of the burglary. He was released under investigation while officers continued with their enquiries. These enquiries including checking with Southend Hospital who confirmed that he had not been there on the 15 May.

Alexander was charged and remanded into custody before receiving a six month sentence. 

Superintendent Timothy Tubbs said "Whether items are taken or not, burglary has a detrimental effect on the public.  Alexander lied to cover up where he was on the day but our persistent work made sure he has been held accountable for his actions.

"We continue to work hard to investigate residential and business burglaries and as a force, we're consistently learning how we can improve this."