Two violent jewel thieves, James Dixon and Thomas Loring, who targeted transit vans, post offices, and a jeweler in South London have been convicted and are facing prison time. The crimes committed by the pair left a trail of destruction, with some victims suffering serious injuries. During a robbery on an antique jewelry shop in Chelsea, two shop workers in their seventies were attacked with a claw hammer, and around £200,000 worth of jewelry was stolen.
The Metropolitan Police’s Flying Squad conducted an investigation, reviewing hundreds of hours of CCTV footage and analyzing DNA to track down Dixon and Loring. They were arrested after attacking a cash in transit worker at a Post Office on the Old Kent Road, during which they stole £26,000.
James Dixon, 42, pleaded guilty to various charges including conspiracy to commit robbery and possession of an offensive weapon. He is scheduled to be sentenced on January 18. Thomas Loring, 41, was found guilty of conspiracy to commit robbery and is set to be sentenced on January 16. The support from the police was commended by the antiques expert and shop owner affected by the robbery in Chelsea.
Mark Dinsdale, Senior Security Manager at the Post Office, highlighted the devastating impact of such crimes on the victims and the community’s access to essential services. The Post Office will continue to collaborate with the Metropolitan Police to prevent and detect criminal behavior.
Detective Inspector Kelly Schonhage, who led the investigation, described the criminal network as proficient, competent, and well-organized. The violent robberies deliberately targeted the cash and valuables in transit industry and businesses in London and Kent, causing serious injuries and distress. The Metropolitan Police is dedicated to utilizing innovative methods, data, and technology to combat violent crime in the capital.
The efforts of law enforcement and the justice system in holding criminals accountable for their actions and ensuring the safety of the community are crucial. The convictions of James Dixon and Thomas Loring serve as a reminder that crime does not go unpunished, and those who engage in illegal activities will face the consequences. The collaboration between businesses, law enforcement, and the community plays a vital role in maintaining security and preventing criminal activities.
