Man sentenced for handling stolen goods following moped thefts in Cambridge

A 53-year-old man has been handed a suspended prison sentence for handling stolen goods following a series of moped thefts across Cambridge.

Detectives launched an investigation after more than 300 mopeds, low powered motorcycles and electric bikes/scooters, worth more than £450,000, were stolen in 2022.

Officers identified a group of people suspected to be involved in some of the crimes.

A warrant was carried out at the home of Mark Bailey, 53, of Nuttings Road, in December 2022 where a number of stolen vehicles were recovered along with a mobile phone containing evidence linking him to sales of the stolen items.

Bailey was sentenced to 20 months in prison, suspended for two years, at Cambridge Crown Court on Wednesday (26 February) after pleading guilty to five counts of handling stolen goods. He must also carry out 200 hours unpaid work.

On 17 January, also at Cambridge Crown Court, Bobby Bailey, 19, of Nuttings Road, Cambridge, was given a two-year community order and 160 hours unpaid work after pleading guilty to five counts of theft of a motor vehicle.

Kieran Roberts, 21, of Southwell Drive, Trumpington, was given a one-year community order and 75 hours unpaid work after pleading guilty to theft of a motor vehicle.

Liam Kilpatrick, 18, of Cottenham Road, Histon, was given an 18-month community order after pleading guilty to handling stolen goods, theft of a motor vehicle and criminal damage.

Three other boys aged 15, 16 and 17, who cannot be named for legal reasons, are yet to be sentenced.

Det Con Antonio Fernandez, who investigated, said: “We’re pleased our investigation has brought these offenders to justice for their part to play in a spate of moped thefts in Cambridge.

“Our priority is to drive down crime that impacts our communities the most, creating neighbourhoods where everyone feels safe.”

Anyone with a moped or motorbike is advised to:

• Lock – use a disc lock to help secure the front brake disc.

• Chain – use a chain lock through the back wheel and where possible secure your bike, with the lock, to an immovable object like a ground anchor or street furniture.

• Cover – thieves often ‘shop’ for particular models. Using a cover instantly makes it less attractive to them.