A teenager has been described as a "one-man crime wave" after he admitted a series of burglaries and thefts.

Paul Andrews stole cars, broke into houses and was responsible for a string of thefts from vehicles.

The 19-year-old was locked up for a total of three years after Chelmsford Crown Court heard how he wanted to "wipe the slate clean" and change his life.

Andrews admitted charges of burglary, taking vehicles without consent and attempted burglary, and asked for a total of 51 similar matters to be considered.

Judge Christopher Ball QC told him: "You are a one-man crime wave and the public need some relief from you."

The court heard Andrews, of no fixed address, broke into houses and cars in the Colchester area during a period which lasted a year from 2006 to 2007.

He was eventually caught and made a full confession to police, the court was told.

Peter Barlex, mitigating, said Andrews wanted to wipe the slate clean and put these matters behind him, Mr Barlex said.

10:56am Friday 9th May 2008

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