A 13-year-old Croydon boy who carried out a string of distraction burglaries across London, Kent and Surrey – along with two adults – has been sentenced today.

The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, would distract the occupants while his accomplice Michael Doran would search the homes and steal money, jewellery and bank cards from their victims.

Geraldine Ward, 36, who drove the trio to the addresses, would pawn the stolen jewellery and attempt to withdraw cash using the stolen bankcards.

Officers eventually linked the trio to 48 offences.

The teenager, who was 12 years old at the time of the offences, was given a 12 months rehabilitation order and a 12 months supervision order, with a six month activity requirement.

Ward, of Burnt Ash Lane, Bromley, was sentenced to three years imprisonment.

Doran, 39, of no fixed abode, was jailed for nine and a half years.

They all pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit burglary and were sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Kerry Townley said: "This was a very complex investigation and was very much a team effort with Operation Drummer (our proactive burglary unit) working together to bring about this result.

“The sentence handed down today is a good result and whilst it reflects the seriousness of the offences committed we very much hope that the 13-year-old boy is rehabilitated and does not come to our notice again.

“We hope that he does change his life for the better."