In a significant crackdown on vehicle theft, four members of a notorious organised crime group have been handed down sentences totaling 12.5 years at Guildford Crown Court today, March 8. The quartet, involved in the theft of 53 high-value vehicles, pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to steal and conspiracy to acquire criminal property.
The individuals sentenced include Perry Lovejoy, 29, from Horley, who received a 3-year prison term; Luke Jackson, 28, from Croydon, sentenced to 3.5 years; Billy Harrison, 30, from Coulsdon, also given 3 years; and Harry Sales, 28, from Croydon, who will serve 3 years as well.
These convictions stem from an exhaustive investigation by the Serious and Organised Crime Unit into the thefts, which totaled over ÂŁ3.7 million in value. Jackson admitted to an additional 42 car thefts, escalating his crimes’ worth to ÂŁ2.1 million.
Spanning 12 months across several South-East counties, the crime spree was halted when police arrested the individuals on April 26, 2023. The investigation revealed the group’s use of a sophisticated ‘relay attack’ method to steal keyless cars, including luxury brands like Rolls Royce and Bentley.
Notably, a relay device manual was found on Lovejoy’s phone, indicating their planned operations. Additional charges included burglary and drug supply offenses, with some sentences to run concurrently.
DC Matt Earl of the Serious and Organised Crime Unit lauded the collaborative effort that led to the convictions, emphasizing the substantial financial impact and disregard for the victims’ suffering. The sentences mark a victory against organized crime, offering the culprits ample time to reflect on their actions behind bars.
