Two Jailed for Ford Fiesta Theft Spree
A crooked duo have been locked up for ripping off at least eight Ford Fiestas across Kent in just five months. Harley Webb, 36, and Callum Burren, 24, targeted cars from July to November 2024, stealing from outside homes and car parks in Tunbridge Wells, Gravesend, Ramsgate, and beyond.
How Thieves Bypassed Keyless Security
The pair used high-tech tricks to hack into keyless Fiestas, employing an on-board diagnostics tool to bypass security systems. Police eventually uncovered their chop shop at an industrial site near Bedgebury Pinetum, where the stolen motors were stripped for parts.
Police Shut Down the Operation
Webb was caught red-handed at the site on 15 November, with stolen cars, parts, and even a machine to forge number plates seized. Burren was later arrested and both men were charged and sent straight to jail.
Sentences and Police Warning
At Maidstone Crown Court, Webb admitted conspiracy to steal and was nailed with a 22-month sentence. Burren, who claimed he acted under threats, admitted multiple charges including driving without a licence and got 15 months inside.
Detective Constable Mike Kingwell said: “Webb and Burren caused a massive spike in Ford Fiesta thefts. These cars, no longer made, are gold dust for parts thieves. They used clever methods across multiple towns, causing misery and financial loss.
“While we’ve shut down their ring, we urge Fiesta owners to beef up security—use crook locks, wheel clamps, and tracking devices. These make the difference in stopping crooks and getting stolen vehicles back.”
