Camborne Man Convicted of Eight Vehicle Interference Offences

A Camborne man has been convicted of eight vehicle interference offences after a series of incidents that unsettled residents across the area.

Gary Thornton appeared at Truro Magistrates’ Court on Monday 21st April and was found guilty of offences committed between 17th March and 13th April 2026. These included trying car door handles, entering insecure vehicles and stealing items from them.

What the court decided

Gary was handed a four-week electronically monitored curfew and ordered to pay compensation to his victims. He was also made subject to a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) for three years.

The order prevents him from entering or attempting to enter any unattended vehicle without permission, entering stores from which he is banned, and refusing to leave premises when asked to do so by someone in authority.

How he was caught

The conviction followed proactive work by the Camborne Neighbourhood Team, the Neighbourhood Support Team, and ASB caseworker Kay Smith. Members of the public also played a key role, providing CCTV footage and information to police.

Officers noted that while vehicle crime can seem minor, it has a real impact on victims, leaving people feeling unsafe in their own homes even when nothing is taken.

What police are asking residents to do

Police are encouraging residents to keep reporting suspicious behaviour and to make sure their vehicles are always left locked and secure. They are also asking people not to leave any items of value in their cars overnight, however small.

Suspicious activity can be reported online via the Devon and Cornwall Police website or by calling 101.