Car thief jailed within 24-hours after stealing vehicle in Harlow
Swift justice as suspect caught and sentenced quickly
A car thief has been jailed just 24-hours after being arrested for stealing a vehicle in Harlow.
According to Essex Police, they received reports at 4.30am on 20th February of a BMW 3 Series being stolen from outside a home in Harlow.
CCTV footage showed two men using a key scanner to take the vehicle.
The car was tracked to Hertfordshire, where Hertfordshire officers apprehended Lukas Rockinas, 25.
Police searched the vehicle and found various items including a key scanner, screwdriver, hacksaw, gloves, and a Swiss army knife, believed to be used in the theft.
Rockinas also reportedly removed items from the car including a gold chain, phone, and pushchair.
Rockinas faced charges for theft of a motor vehicle, theft from a motor vehicle, going equipped for theft, and driving without insurance.
He appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on 21st February, where he admitted all charges and was sentenced to 24-weeks in jail.
Sgt Luke Edmonds from the Harlow Local Policing Team acknowledged the quick resolution of the case.
“This really was a case of swift justice – within the space of 24-hours Rockinas was arrested, charged, pleaded guilty and was jailed and we were able to return the car back to the victim," Sgt Edmonds said.
“I would like to thank Investigating Officer PC Anthony Thomas of the Harlow Local Policing team who worked hard to secure justice and of course our colleagues in Hertfordshire Police. Criminals need to remember, borders don’t stop officers from catching them," he added.