Charges after series of bike thefts
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Two men have been charged in connection with a series of thefts across Kent totalling more than £20,000.
Officers have been investigating several offences from shops across the county where high-value racing bikes, electric bikes and e-scooters have been reported stolen.
Their enquiries included 13 incidents between May and August 2025 where national chains and local businesses in Ashford, Aylesford, Folkestone, Gravesend, Sittingbourne, Maidstone and Whitstable were targeted.
In November 2025, they arrested a man in connection with the offences who was released on bail pending further enquiries.
Charged
On Sunday 7 June 2026, Ricky Mantell, 38, of Tram Way in Rochester was charged with conspiracy to steal from a shop.
The following day, Scott Francis, 42, of Whimbrel Close in Thamesmead, London was also charged with conspiracy to steal from a shop.
They are both due to appear at Maidstone Magistrates' Court on Friday 21 August 2026.