Four women have been charged with nearly 20 counts of theft in connection with an alleged shoplifting spree spanning Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells.
The incident unfolded when Kent Police responded to a theft report at Space NK on Sevenoaks High Street. According to allegations, a group of women entered the store, removed items from the shelves, and left without paying.
Proactive patrols by the Roads Policing Unit later identified a vehicle suspected to be linked to the incident, crossing into Essex via the Dartford Crossing and after a brief pursuit, authorities apprehended the car in Grays, Essex, resulting in the arrest of five women.
During a subsequent search, over 450 items—suspected to have been stolen from seven different stores—were recovered, and the car was seized. The investigation continues.
A woman, aged 20, from Essex, and a 17-year-old girl from Slough were each charged with five counts of theft in relation to the incident. A woman, aged 33, also from Slough and a 32-year-old from Ilford were also charged with four counts of theft each.
The women are bailed to appear before Medway Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 21 May 2024.
A woman in her 50s was released without charge.
Appeal
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Investigating officers believe a further suspect may have been involved in the incident and have released a CCTV image of a woman, shown above, who may be able to assist with enquiries.
Anyone who recognises the woman pictured is urged to call the west Kent appeals line on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/YY/11700/24. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or by using the online form on their website.