Thieves in Jarrow have been stealing high-value Range Rovers and Land Rovers, exploiting security flaws. Two men received suspended sentences for their involvement in the thefts.
Jarrow: A car thief involved in stealing high-value Land Rovers and Range Rovers has avoided prison. Sam Gordon and David Hailes found a way to bypass the cars’ security systems.
Northumbria Police started investigating after many thefts of specific models with keyless entry. They looked into 76 stolen cars from 2010 to 2015 across the North East.
Victims lost not just their cars but also valuable items inside. These included fishing gear, golf clubs, a designer handbag, cash, and even Chanel perfume.
Hailes admitted to stealing 12 cars worth between £150,000 and £200,000. He received a suspended sentence last year. Now, Gordon, who was involved in eight thefts, also got a suspended sentence.
The thieves targeted areas like Jesmond, Gateshead, and Sunderland. After some thefts, glass was found where the cars had been parked, but the owners still had their keys.
Gordon, 37, from Jarrow, has a history of theft and was given a 20-month suspended sentence. The judge warned him it was his last chance to avoid prison.
Hailes, 38, also from Jarrow, has 29 previous convictions. He got involved in the thefts due to a £20,000 debt. He has since tried to turn his life around and received a suspended sentence with community service.
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