A 47-year-old Slovenian man, Davorin L., appeared before the Bruges criminal court charged with six burglaries and one attempted burglary, primarily targeting work materials from vans.
The chain of events began following a nighttime burglary in Beernem, where on 28 February, Davorin L. stole items including a hammer drill and an electric screwdriver from a van. The victim caught sight of a vehicle speeding away with a French number plate, which aided the police in swiftly apprehending Davorin L., thanks to number plate recognition cameras. The stolen work materials were found in his vehicle.
Further investigation revealed that the suspect had committed five similar burglaries since 10 January in areas including Blankenberge, Damme, Zedelgem, Geraardsbergen, and Seneffe, with an attempted burglary occurring in Lierde. The police discovered photos of stolen work materials on his mobile phone.
During a subsequent interrogation, Davorin L. confessed fully, even admitting to stealing items on request.
The defence argued that the stolen goods were sold just across the French border. The Slovenian had reportedly been unemployed for about six years but has found work as a car mechanic while in prison. Defence lawyer Maxim Mervilde noted that Davorin L. had no prior criminal record and urged for a suspended sentence, potentially with conditions.
The court will deliver its verdict on 31 July.
