Burglar caught by 'Home Alone' bucket trap in Blyth

A burglar in Blyth, Northumberland, named Paul Howell, was caught attempting to break into a family home after tripping over a makeshift trap set by the homeowners, which consisted of a string and a bucket of water. Howell, who has an extensive criminal history with over 100 convictions, fled the scene after the trap activated, but was later identified through CCTV footage and arrested. He was sentenced to 43 months in prison after pleading guilty to attempted burglary and other offenses. The homeowners had resorted to this unconventional security measure after their property had been targeted multiple times. This incident highlights the lengths to which residents may go to protect their homes from repeat burglaries, reflecting broader concerns about safety and crime in communities. Howell's case underscores the importance of vigilance and reporting suspicious activities to law enforcement.