A prolific thief has admitted a one-man crimewave across Birmingham in just a month.

Ashley Roden was arrested by officers as he tried to flee a burglary by climbing over rooftops in Sutton Coldfield last Thursday.

The 32-year-old went on to admit 20 crimes ranging from burglary, theft and assault throughout June. Roden’s offending began early in the month where he burgled a supermarket.

Then on 15 June, he began a spree of burglary and shoplifting offences at multiple supermarkets and pharmacies across Birmingham.

In the process, he also breached his community behaviour order and assaulted staff.

It is estimated that the 32-year-old stole almost £5,000 worth of goods during this period.

Following extensive reviews of CCTV footage by CID and uniformed officers, Roden, of no fixed address, was linked to all the offences.

Roden pleaded guilty to the charges at Birmingham Magistrates Court on Friday (28 June).

He was remanded in custody and is set to be sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court on 26 July.