David Buisson was jailed for eight years last September
David Buisson stole cash and jewellery, benefiting £1.2 million from his crimes.
The 50-year-old was jailed for eight years last September for targeting homes and businesses across Essex between December 2015 and June 2017.
His victims include businessman and Apprentice star Lord Sugar.
In April 2018, tools were found for drilling and lock picking in properties linked to Buisson, in Ongar and Woodford.
The burglar fled to Spain but was arrested in Fuengirola in April 2018, following a combined effort involving Essex Police, Crown Prosecution Service and National Crime Agency.
Buisson was jailed last year after admitting 11 burglaries and two attempted burglaries.
Tools were found in properties linked to Buisson
The hearing was held yesterday at Basildon Crown Court where the judge granted a confiscation order for his available assets of £294,973 under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
The money will be paid to eight of his victims as compensation.
Essex Police’s financial investigator, Marie Hall, said: “Officers from Brentwood CID worked tirelessly with colleagues from across the force, including the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, to bring Buisson to justice.
“We have since been working hard to retrieve as much of the money he made from his crimes as possible.
“Buisson gave no thought to the distress he caused his victims, whom he targeted in a calculated way.
“We will use proceeds of crime legislation wherever possible to ensure such individuals are made to pay for their crimes.”
Buisson will have four years added to his prison sentence if he fails to repay the money.
Tags: Woodford, Epping Forest, Ongar
