Two ringleaders of an organised crime gang responsible for stealing over £2 million worth of high-end vehicles have been sentenced following a major investigation. The gang targeted cars parked outside homes across Hampshire, Dorset, and Wiltshire between February and October 2023.
Led by George Berry, 32, and Benjamin Cross, 25, both from Southampton, the 12-member group stole 107 vehicles, mainly from driveways late at night while owners slept. The stolen vehicles, which included luxury brands such as Land Rover, Range Rover, Jaguar, Mercedes, Audi, Bentley, Lexus, alongside motorcycles, vans, and other cars, were transported to a “chop shop” where they were dismantled for parts.
Berry received a 56-month prison sentence at Southampton Crown Court for conspiracy to steal vehicles, handling stolen goods, and possession of criminal property. Cross was sentenced to 64 months for the same crimes plus perverting the course of justice.
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Hampshire Constabulary revealed the gang employed advanced technology to facilitate their crimes: signal boosters replicated vehicle key fob signals to unlock cars, while signal jammers prevented owners from locking their vehicles successfully. This allowed the criminals to take vehicles unnoticed in the dead of night.
The court described the operation as a “highly sophisticated commercial enterprise,” with Berry and Cross playing leading roles. The judge called the thefts “alarming” and “frightening” for owners of valuable cars but commended police efforts for their thorough investigation.
Of the 107 vehicles stolen, 76 were taken in Hampshire, 28 in Dorset, and three in Wiltshire.
Detective Constable Paul Beasley emphasized the significant financial and emotional impact on victims: “The majority of vehicles were stolen while owners were asleep, causing considerable distress and disruption to their daily lives, from commuting to school runs.”
Other gang members sentenced include Rachael Moran (31) from Southampton, who received a 12-month suspended sentence for possession of criminal property; Bradley Paddick (22), jailed for 36 months for conspiracy related to theft and handling stolen goods; and Charlotte Traves (24), given an 18-month suspended sentence for possession of criminal property and perverting the course of justice. Seven additional members face sentencing next month.