Woman jailed after theft and fraud spree targeting vehicles across Milton Keynes
Leigh Ashwell targeted parked cars before using stolen bank cards at local petrol stations and shops
A prolific thief who targeted vehicles across Milton Keynes before using stolen bank cards to make fraudulent purchases has been jailed.
37-year-old Leigh Ashwell, of no fixed address, was sentenced to eight months in prison at Milton Keynes Magistrates' Court on 3rd September after pleading guilty to 18 offences.
The offences
Ashwell pleaded guilty to nine counts of vehicle interference, five counts of fraud by false representation, theft from a shop, theft from the person of another, theft from a motor vehicle and attempted theft from a motor vehicle.
The offences took place between 21st June and 16th August this year across Milton Keynes, including in Bletchley, Willen, Tinkers Bridge, Bancroft Park, Wolverton Mill and Greenleys.
She regularly targeted parked vehicles, trying door handles before stealing wallets, purses and other personal property.
She then used stolen bank cards at local petrol stations and shops.
How she operated
On 20th June, Ashwell stole a wallet from a vehicle before using the victim's bank cards at BP Saxon Street, Esso Fenny Stratford and Morrisons Daily in Queensway.
A week later, she stole two Amazon parcels from an address in Tinkers Bridge, with the theft captured on doorbell footage.
On 6th July, she stole bank cards, a driving licence and Meta glasses from a Porsche before using the cards at BP Conniburrow.
She also stole a purse and baby changing bag from a Range Rover before using the victim's bank cards at Texaco in Bradwell Common.
Police reaction
Police Staff Investigator Barbara Elekes, based at Milton Keynes police station, said: "Leigh Ashwell repeatedly targeted members of the public, stealing personal belongings from vehicles and then using stolen bank cards to make fraudulent purchases.
"Her actions caused financial loss, inconvenience and distress to a number of people across Milton Keynes.
"I would like to thank the victims who supported our investigation, as well as the members of the public who provided information and footage that helped us build the case against Ashwell."