Suspect charged with Ford Fiesta thefts

A suspect has appeared in court charged over the thefts of Ford Fiestas from around Kent.

Detectives investigated vehicle thefts from addresses in the Gravesend, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells areas between July and November 2024.

On Friday 15 November, police stopped a Ford Fiesta in the Goudhurst area and arrested three people on suspicion of theft offences.

A nearby industrial unit was searched and a number of vehicle parts were found and seized as part of ongoing enquiries.

Court

Harley Webb, of Sherwood Road, Tunbridge Wells, has since been charged with conspiracy to steal vehicles in relation to the theft of seven Ford Fiestas and a Mercedes.

The 35 year old appeared before Margate Magistrates' Court on Monday 18 November and was remanded in custody to appear at Maidstone Crown Court on Monday 16 December.

The two other people arrested have been bailed pending further investigation.

Warning

Officers are warning owners of Ford Fiestas, and all vehicles, to make sure their cars are as secure as possible.

Motorists should:

• Park in a garage, secure car park or well-lit area covered by CCTV if possible. Consider using a steering wheel or handbrake lock to deter thieves.

• Check if any entry fobs can be turned off overnight and store them away from any household entry points. Make sure you don't leave your car keys visible from the outside of your home.

• Drivers can also store their fobs in special foil-lined bags which can be bought from retailers, to prevent any unwanted communication between the vehicle and its keys.

• Consider having windows etched with the vehicle registration number or use an invisible ink marker pen to mark these details and your postcode on the underside frame of the vehicle.