What led to a serial burglar’s 18‑month jail term after crashing a Dacia Duster through Evans Halshaw’s shutter?
Serial burglar jailed 18 months after using a Dacia Duster to smash through Evans Halshaw Ford Middlesbrough’s shutter – full court details.
Serial burglar jailed after using a Dacia Duster to breach Evans Halshaw Ford Middlesbrough
In a rare and dramatic incident, a 42‑year‑old man's attempt to flee an Evans Halshaw dealership in the north of England ended with an 18‑month prison sentence and a driving ban lasting until 2030.
How the escape unfolded
Thomas Nixon, described by the court as a “serial burglar”, stole a used Dacia Duster from the Evans Halshaw Ford Middlesbrough site. He then used the vehicle to smash through the dealership’s roller shutter, creating approximately £3,500 worth of damage to the shutter itself. The impact also damaged the Dacia Duster, with repair costs estimated at £1,000.
After abandoning the battered Dacia Duster just over a mile from the premises, Nixon attempted to evade police by fleeing on foot. Officers pursued him briefly, and he was eventually apprehended.
Police findings and court proceedings
During the arrest, Nixon displayed slurred speech and appeared drowsy. A saliva swab test confirmed the presence of cocaine, and he refused to provide a blood sample. The investigation also revealed that two new sets of car keys, costing £500, had to be issued after the stolen keys were recovered.
At Teesside Crown Court, Nixon pleaded guilty to several offences, including burglary, aggravated vehicle taking, dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, driving without insurance, and failing to provide a specimen for analysis.
Background and sentencing
The court was informed that Nixon had ten prior burglary convictions dating from 1998 to 2021. He told the court that those offences were committed to fund his drug addiction. Considering the seriousness of the offences and his repeated criminal history, Judge Ian Mullarkey sentenced him to 18 months in jail and imposed a driving disqualification that runs until 2030.
The case highlights the severe financial and operational impact that criminal activity can have on motor‑retail businesses, from repairing property damage to replacing stolen assets such as vehicle keys.
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The original story was first published by Car Dealer Magazine and reported by TeessideLive.