A PROLIFIC burglar who posed as a window cleaner before breaking into homes across the borough has been sentenced to four years in jail.

Scott Gambier confessed to burgling a total of 28 homes in Redbridge after being caught by police when one of his finger prints was found at the scene of a raid.

The 30-year-old, of The Drive, Ilford, told officers that he would dress up in a smart suit and knock on the door at targeted properties in order to scope out their potential security 'weaknesses.'

A police spokesman said Gambier had been an active burglar in the borough for a number of years before he was finally snared.

Detective Inspector Phil Davies of Ilford CID said: "Gambier faces a lengthy period behind bars which represents the many victims that he generated.

"This should serve as a warning to other burglars who lead a hazardous and destructive life of crime.

"To assist in reducing crime I would urge the public to use immobilise.com and view the Met Police website regarding Operation Bumblebee.

"To stop a burglar you have to think like one."

Gambier was sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday, October 16.