A serial arsonist who launched a spate of attacks against CCTV cameras has been locked up.

James Robert Frost set fire to surveillance cameras in Middlesbrough earlier this year.

The 33-year-old was first arrested after twice setting fire to cameras on Cass House Road in April causing thousands of pounds of damage, Teesside Crown Court heard.

But despite police already being onto his criminal ways he decided to launch a third attack against the same camera column the next month, while under investigation by police.

Frost was rearrested and this time remanded in custody.

The Northern Echo: James Robert Frost.James Robert Frost. (Image: CLEVELAND POLICE)

Last week has was found guilty of three counts of arson following a two-day-trial.

A judge sentenced him to spend two years and nine months behind bars.

Speaking after the trial Inspector Chris Hartshorne from Middlesbrough’s neighbourhood police said: “The kind of criminal behaviour which James Frost has perpetrated will not be tolerated in our neighbourhoods.

“On three separate occasions, Frost set alight to CCTV cameras which could help protect people within our communities, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

“Anyone who thinks this type of behaviour is acceptable is warned that those who commit such criminal acts will be put before the courts and dealt with robustly.”

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Cllr Janet Thompson added: “This is an outstanding result and a clear indication from the courts that they take this kind of offending very seriously indeed.

“Communities and law-abiding citizens love our CCTV network because it brings protection and reassurance to their neighbourhoods.

“That’s exactly why criminals hate them – and attacks like these only strengthen our resolve to make the system better and stronger than ever.”