Man sent back to jail after JCB ram-raid on store in West Sussex
He took the vehicle while on temporary release from prison
A masked man who attempted to ram-raid a West Sussex store with a stolen JCB has been sent back to jail.
Alfie Smith was one of an organised gang who used the vehicle to smash into the Co-op in The Square in Barnham in the early hours of July 4th.
They had been aiming to steal the JCB from the building, however police were able to prevent the burglary after responding to reports of a telehandler being stolen from a nearby yard.
As they arrived, two suspects were able to make off in a stolen vehicle, but Smith was detained following a short foot chase.
43-year-old Smith, of Staines Road West in Ashford, Middlesex, had committed the offence while on temporary release from prison.
He had been serving a 14-year sentence for similar offences which he had been convicted of in 2019.
Smith was charged with trespassing with intent to steal and aggravated taking of a motor vehicle without the owner’s consent, and remanded in custody.
He pleaded guilty to both offences and was sentenced to six years’ imprisonment at Lewes Crown Court on August 2nd, on top of the remaining 10 years of his previous sentence, for a total of 16 years.
Investigating Officer Sam Doyle, of West Sussex CID, said:
"This footage shows the clear intent by Smith and his associates to steal an ATM from a village store, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage in the process. They had clearly prepared for this operation in advance, but they hadn’t prepared for police to respond so quickly.
“I’d like to thank the numerous victims, witnesses and companies who provided statements and CCTV, which gave us vital evidence to secure Smith’s conviction.
“I’d also like to extend my gratitude to the dedicated staff and officers who have been involved from the start of this fast-moving and multi-department investigation.
“I acknowledge the significant impact this incident would have had on residents in this small and quiet village, as well as the businesses that suffered financially.”
A 37-year-old man from Aldershot in Hampshire was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit burglary and has been bailed until October 5th as the investigation continues.
Anyone with any information that could assist police is asked to report it online or call 101, quoting Op Milson.
You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report it online.