Man sentenced to over four years for series of business burglaries in Hastings

Thursday, 13 August 2026 12:25

By Philip Keeler

David Morten, 42, of no fixed address - Credit: Sussex Police 2026

A man has been jailed for four years and three months for his involvement in a series of burglaries targeting businesses in Hastings.

David Morten, 42, of no fixed address, was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court on Tuesday, 4 August.

The offences were investigated as part of a linked series after police received a number of reports of burglaries in Hastings town centre between 8 and 15 April.

Neighbourhood Policing Teams worked alongside officers from the East Sussex Burglary Team and the Criminal Investigation Department to carry out fast-paced enquiries.

The investigation led to Morten being identified and subsequently arrested and charged in connection with the offences.

Morten appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on 16 April, where he pleaded guilty to 11 counts of burglary other than dwelling, two counts of attempted burglary other than dwelling and two counts of theft from a shop.

He was later brought before Lewes Crown Court, where he received a prison sentence of four years and three months.

Detective Sergeant Jake O'Reilly, from the East Sussex Burglary Team, said: “We understand the concern caused by business burglaries in Hastings town centre and want to reassure the community that we have taken robust action.

“Following a number of reports, officers carried out fast-paced enquiries which led to Morten being brought before the courts, where he pleaded guilty.

“This sentence reflects the seriousness of the offending and the impact these offences can have on local businesses and the wider community".

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