Four men from a ruthless burglary gang have been slammed with hefty jail sentences after a smash-and-grab spree across Northern England and the Midlands.
Violent ATM Heist Gang Busted
The crime ring was exposed after a daring police chase in Leicestershire. On 24 April, Liverpool Crown Court sentenced the quartet following a string of violent raids targeting cash machines.
- Lee Leatherbarrow, 33, of Lascelles Street, was arrested during a St Helens raid after officers linked him to the gang’s crimes.
The gang’s crimes kicked off with a brutal ATM attack at a Warrington store in April 2022. Police were rammed by the gang as they sped off, sparking a major investigation dubbed Operation Hades.
Widespread Crime Trail
The team’s criminal activities spanned across the North of England, dipping down into the Midlands—even crossing into areas they thought were safe. To stay under the radar, they used cloned number plates from matching car models.
- They stole Ford Transit vans and drove in convoys directly to stores.
- Using angle grinders and other power tools, they ripped ATMs out, causing thousands in damage.
- Cash-filled cassettes were loaded into getaway vehicles before speeding off.
High-Speed Pursuit Ends Gang’s Run
The gang’s luck ran out after a final heist at a Co-operative in Moira, Leicestershire. Police from Cheshire Constabulary chased their BMW at up to 90mph in a 30mph zone. During the chase, gang members tried to injure officers by hurling fire extinguishers and bricks from the vehicles.
Eventually, officers pulled off a tactical stop, arresting members Price and Gaskin. The BMW was found stuffed with seven sets of number plates, stolen items, bricks, a sledgehammer, and a circular saw.
Detective’s Warning to Criminals
“This gang left a trail of destruction for their own selfish gain. They may have stolen over £500,000 in cash, but the damage to shops, ATMs, and around 20 stolen vehicles has brought losses to £1 million,” said Detective Inspector Nick Henderson.
“These weren’t victimless crimes. Local businesses and communities suffered badly. Thanks to our thorough investigation, the gang had no choice but to plead guilty — even if it took some time.
“Together, they face a combined 29 years behind bars. Let this be a clear message: if you come to Cheshire to commit crime, we will find you and bring you to justice.”
