A MAN who burgled items from a museum has been found guilty.
Thomas Hyde, 30, broke into Hastings Museum and Art Gallery in Bohemia Road at around 2.20am on August 14.
Hyde caused more than £1,000 worth of damage and smashed into a collection box to steal bank notes, as well as a limited-edition photo book and charity pin badges being sold to raise money for a hospice.
The museum’s alarm activated and police attended the museum.
Officers were told by staff at a nearby leisure centre that a photobook and pin badges had been found discarded nearby.
A fragment of glass was found with blood staining on it.
DNA tests found the blood belonged to Hyde and he was arrested.
Hyde, of no fixed address, was later charged with burglary other than dwelling and was found guilty at Brighton Magistrates’ Court in Edward Street on Saturday.
The court released Hyde on conditional bail to allow for sentencing reports to be prepared.
Inspector Aidan Cornwall, of the Hastings Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Hastings Museum and Art Gallery is a long-standing and popular attraction in the town that relies on grants and donations.
“The financial loss suffered during this burglary, including the fact the museum had to close for the day while damage was repaired, adds additional strain at a time when many establishments are already struggling.
“Hyde showed completed disregard for the impact his actions would have on the museum, the charities it supports, and the wider community.
“Thanks to quick recovery of the discarded items, we were able to forensically link him to the burglary and secure a swift conviction at court.”
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