A SOUTHAMPTON man who was taught to steal from the age of nine has been jailed.

Brandon Cross started his life of crime while still in primary school, and was convicted of carrying an offensive weapon, aged only 12.

The 20-year-old has since amassed a comprehensive criminal record over the last eight years, including theft, battery and a racially aggravated assault.

Cross’s criminal career was revealed, when he appeared at Southampton Crown Court to face sentencing for his part in a series of night-time burglaries across the city.

The court heard Cross was part of a “gang” who broke into homes, stole car keys and used them to drive away the owner’s car.

The group also stole contactless bank cards, which they used in nearby fast food outlets and stores – including a £17 breakfast from McDonald’s.

Cross, who pleaded guilty to one count of burglary and a number of joy-riding offences, was jailed for 27 months.

The court heard how the burglaries all took place in Southampton, between March and July last year.

Members would gain entry to properties at night, through open windows and unlocked doors, while homeowners were asleep.

Prosecutor Edward Elton told the court how handbags, containing cash, cards and car keys, were stolen. The keys would then be used to steal the homeowner’s vehicle.

Cross was seen driving a number of the stolen vehicles, including a BMW X1, a Mercedes, a Hyundai and a modified Kia – which was specially adapted for a person with disabilities.

He also admitted his part in a similar burglary, in June, where he broke into a home in Millbrook.

Cross stole keys to a Vauxhall Corsa, belonging to the occupier, a single mother, whose cards he fraudulently used at a nearby McDonald’s.

He was caught after police found his hand print at the scene, the court heard.

Mr Elton said victims of the burglaries had been left feeling “jumpy” “paranoid” and “unable to sleep”.

In mitigation, Robert Bryan said Cross had grown up in a family who had taught him to steal aged nine. He said Cross was motivated to get away from being branded as “a thief”.

Cross, whose address was given in court as HMP Winchester, pleaded guilty to one count of burglary, one count of car theft, one count of handling stolen goods, three counts of taking without consent and four counts of card fraud.

He also admitted stealing an Apple laptop, which he agreed to buy off a friend, only to walk off without paying the agreed £250 price.

Jailing Cross, judge Peter Henry said: “These are serious matters. The impact on the victims of theses offences was considerable.

“Not only did they have their wallets and cards stolen, but that was against the backdrop of their houses being entered while they were asleep.

“I would be failing in my duty if I did not sentence you as I have.”

Cross will serve his sentence in a young offenders institute.