Security Guard Used X-Ray Machine To Plot Thefts

Who watches those who watch? More to the point, who watches those who steal the watch?

A security guard at London's Gatwick Airport will spend the next 18 months behind bars after he was convicted of using the X-Ray screening machine to spot precious loot in passengers' luggage.

Jose Vasconelos, 34, was arrested in March after a video camera set up to catch sneaky screeners, caught him in the act. When officers searched his home, they found a stash of stolen goodies that included a $4,500 Cartier watch. In all, British authorities estimate Vasconelos stole more than $12,800 over a span of three years.

"He has brought disgrace on himself and his family," said his attorney during trial. "He has had time to reflect and he's made himself sick because of the trouble he has bought upon himself. He's thrown away a good life. He worked alone and there was no pre-planning with others. His behavior was more of a hoarder than someone who was disposing of property."

In sentencing Vasconelos, Judge Richard Hayward said, "You were in a position of considerable trust and responsibility and I'm afraid you abused that trust."

FMI: www.baa.co.uk/main/airports/gatwick