Car Thief Busted After Ford Fiesta Crime Spree Across Kent
A man has been charged following a series of Ford Fiesta thefts across Kent. Police investigated car thefts in Gravesend, Tonbridge, and Tunbridge Wells between July and November 2024, linking them to a crime ring.
Ford Fiesta Stop Leads to Arrests
On Friday, November 15, officers stopped a Ford Fiesta in Goudhurst and arrested three suspects on suspicion of theft. A nearby industrial unit search revealed a stash of vehicle parts now seized for ongoing probes.
Man Charged with Stealing Multiple Cars
Harley Webb, 35, from Sherwood Road, Tunbridge Wells, is charged with conspiring to steal at least seven Ford Fiestas and a Mercedes. He appeared at Margate Magistrates’ Court on November 18 and was remanded in custody. Webb will face Maidstone Crown Court on December 16.
The two others arrested have been bailed pending further investigation.
Police Warn Ford Fiesta Owners to Step Up Security
Kent Police urge all motorists, especially Ford Fiesta drivers, to boost car security amid the theft spree:
- Park Securely: Use garages, secure car parks, or well-lit areas monitored by CCTV.
- Use Physical Locks: Steering wheel or handbrake locks make cars harder to steal.
- Secure Your Key Fobs: Switch off entry fobs overnight and store them away from doors or windows. Foil-lined key bags block signals thieves use to unlock cars.
- Mark Your Vehicle: Etch your registration number on windows or use invisible ink to mark the frame.
“We encourage all vehicle owners to take these precautions to make it harder for thieves to target their cars. Our officers remain committed to disrupting organised theft operations and bringing offenders to justice,” said a Kent Police spokesperson.
The investigation into this car theft ring is ongoing.
