'Smash And Grab' Rookies Captured

A young gang of wannabe ‘smash and grab’ raiders – armed with an axe and sledgehammer - fled a jewellery store empty handed and are now beginning lengthy custodial sentences.

They roared up on three motorbikes to V Jeweller’s, Heddon Court Parade, Cockfosters Road, Barnet, on June 18 and smashed the store’s door and windows in determined bid to grab valuables.

Quick-thinking staff activated security measures – filling the shop with smoke – and the gang left with nothing and were arrested by police at their base, a lock-up garage.

All six pleaded guilty at Southwark Crown Court to conspiracy to commit robbery between May 1 and June 19

The gang (pictured from l. to r.) are: Nathan Hines, 22, of Berkeley Gardens, Enfield, (4yrs. 8m.) Charlie Kavanagh, 19, of Inworth Walk, Islington, (3yrs. 10m.) Brett Bradley, 20, (3yrs. 4m.).

Jamies Rainsford, 20, of Belgon Close, Islington, (3yrs. 9m.) Alex Moriarty, 23, of Upper Caldy, Islington, (3yrs. 8m.) and Ryan Griffin, 20, of Hartland Close, Winchmore Hill, (3 yrs. 4m.).

Three of the gang – all wearing dark clothing and crash helmets - acted as getaway riders and the other three jumped off the motorbikes and began smashing their way into the shop until enveloped by smoke.

One member of staff was taken to hospital and treated for minor shock and later discharged.

The gang returned to an area of wasteland in front of garages in Ladbroke Road, Enfield, and were arrested.

Police seized several items of stolen property, including a sledgehammer, four motorbikes, and motorbike paraphernalia. A vehicle was also seized.

Detective Sergeant Richard Baker of Westminster Crime Squad, said: “The sentencing today forms part of the ongoing response by Westminster Crime Squad to 'smash and grab' type offences.

“I hope that this result sends a message to those contemplating committing such offences that the police, the CPS and our partners in the business community will continue to pursue and prosecute those individuals in a robust manner.”

Detective Inspector Frank McGowan, of Westminster Police, said: 'For the past year the Westminster Crime Squad with support of key partners have concentrated their efforts towards identifying and arresting those individuals who work within organised criminal networks in committing offences of smash and grab within the retail community.

Offences of this type have cost the business community millions of pounds over the past few years in and around London and resulting in a significant increase in offences.

“We have steadily identified and arrested those responsible and as well as being a clear deterrent to others who commit these type of offences, London has now seen a considerable decrease in the number of offences.”