Reece Dunford was the ringleader of a violent gang who used axes and sledgehammers to crack open display cabinets and make off with watches, gems, handbags and shoes
The nephew of TV star Linda Robson has been jailed over a string of smash and grab raids on luxury stores.
Reece Dunford was the ringleader of a violent gang who used axes and sledgehammers to crack open display cabinets and make off with watches, gems, handbags and shoes.
In one raid, the mob dressed in burkas to attack Selfridges jewellery department in Central London.
Birds of a Feather actress Linda wrote a character reference for Dunford, 31, who admitted 10 raids.
In one, the gang fled with £300,000 of Rolex watches from a store in the City of London after threatening terrified staff with sledgehammers.
TV star Linda Robson: His aunt wrote a character reference from Reece Dunford (
Image:
WENN)
Dunford’s model girlfriend Hollie Dowding, 25, sold on stolen designer gear including Prada handbags and Jimmy Choo shoes.
Judge Elaine Coello told Dunford: “You are the link between the defendants. For all intents and purposes this was Dunford and Co, although this business was deeply criminal.”
Dunford, of Waltham Abbey, Essex – and said to suffer depression – was jailed for 12 years.
Girlfriend: Hollie Dowding sold on designer shoes and handbags (
Image:
CENTRAL NEWS)
Hatton Garden jeweller Yair Cohen, 71, also flogged gems passed on to him by the crook.
Yair Cohen: Hatton Garden jeweller, who sold on gems for Dunford (
Image:
CENTRAL NEWS)
Reece Dunford, the leader of a violent gang involved in a series of smash and grab raids on luxury stores, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison. The gang, armed with axes and sledgehammers, targeted display cabinets in stores to steal items such as watches, gems, handbags, and shoes. In one daring raid, they even disguised themselves in burkas to carry out an attack on the jewellery department of Selfridges in Central London.Despite his criminal activities, Dunford’s aunt, TV star Linda Robson, wrote a character reference for him during the trial. However, the judge made it clear that Dunford played a central role in the criminal operation, acting as the link between the gang members. His girlfriend, Hollie Dowding, was also involved in the crime, selling off the stolen designer items like Prada handbags and Jimmy Choo shoes.During the investigation, it was revealed that Hatton Garden jeweler Yair Cohen, aged 71, had unknowingly sold gems that were passed on to him by Dunford. This highlights the wide-reaching impact of Dunford’s criminal activities, affecting not only the stores targeted but also innocent businesses and individuals.The sentencing of Dunford serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of engaging in criminal behavior. The judge emphasized the gravity of the crimes committed, describing the operation as “deeply criminal.” This case underscores the importance of upholding the law and holding individuals accountable for their actions.As we continue to bring you informative content, we strive to provide valuable insights and knowledge to our readers. Stay tuned for more updates and helpful information to empower and educate our audience. Thank you for following us and supporting our efforts to deliver reliable and trustworthy content.
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Source: Los Angeles Times (edited)
