Three burglars have been sentenced to prison after a dramatic high-speed police pursuit along the M25, which saw them reach speeds of 85mph in a 30mph zone following a high-value break-in in Kent.
The Swift Burglary and Theft
Just after midnight on February 12 this year, police were called to a reported burglary at a home in Swanley, Kent. The culprits, Liam Madgwick, Michael Allison, and Kian O'Conner, had stolen an Audi, a Mazda, jewellery, car keys for an Audi, an expensive watch, and a wallet.
The Dramatic High-Speed Chase
Officers quickly located the stolen Mazda, which was speeding towards the Dartford Crossing. The driver, 18-year-old Liam Madgwick, led police on a dangerous chase, bombing down the M25 and reaching 85mph in a 30mph zone in a desperate attempt to escape.
The pursuit continued into Essex towards Purfleet, where Madgwick's luck ran out after he hit a dead end. He was arrested at 1:09 am, a mere 14 minutes after the initial 999 call was made by a member of the public.
The Second Vehicle and Arrests
A Vauxhall, seen travelling in convoy with the stolen Mazda, was simultaneously followed by a lone female police officer into Barking, East London. She skilfully blocked the vehicle at a petrol station and arrested Michael Allison, 21, and another man. Items stolen during the burglary were successfully seized, although the stolen Audi was never recovered.
Sentencing and Consequences
All three men faced justice at Maidstone Crown Court. Michael Allison, of Kingswood Road, Ilford, pleaded guilty to burglary and theft offences and was sentenced to two years and four months in prison on November 24.
Liam Madgwick, of Valence Circus, Dagenham, pleaded guilty to the same offences, plus charges for dangerous driving and having no licence or insurance. He was sentenced to 16 months in a young offender institution.
Kian O'Conner, 20, of Romford Road, Aveley, South Ockendon, handed himself in the day after the burglary. He admitted to burglary and two counts of vehicle theft and was jailed for 18 months.
Police Comment on the Impact of Burglary
Detective Constable Rosie Acton commented on the case, stating: "Burglary and car thefts cause huge upset and anxiety to victims and often have a lasting impact on people’s lives. These crimes don’t just result in financial loss - they take away people’s sense of security in their own homes."
She emphasised the force's commitment to targeting criminals, adding, "This case illustrates the determination and speed of our officers to bring offenders to justice."
