A shocking burglary in Nottingham ended with the suspect hiding in a bin after stealing high-value items from a local opticians. On 5 November, Ashley Lawrence, 37, of no fixed address and wanted on a recall to prison, smashed the glass door of Gray & Bull Opticians before taking approximately 50 pairs of sunglasses and glasses frames worth around £8,000.

Three days later, an employee spotted Lawrence loitering near the shop, prompting police to attend. In a bid to evade capture, Lawrence attempted to hide in a bin, but officers successfully apprehended him and took him into custody.

Lawrence admitted to the burglary during an appearance at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 10 November, and was subsequently sentenced to 12 months in prison. The unusual circumstances of his arrest have made the case notable, highlighting both the audacity of the crime and the suspect’s desperate attempt to avoid justice.