Two Burglars Jailed After Wave of Thanet Break-Ins
Two thieves have been locked up following a spree of burglaries across Thanet. Ryan Fountain and Sam Crew were snatched by officers on patrol in Margate on 16 July 2019, linked to a string of raids earlier that day.
Stolen Goods Spark Big Break
Police raided a property where the pair were found, uncovering items reported stolen from various burglaries. Kent Police’s investigation uncovered 19 offences tied to the duo, including house and business break-ins, plus car thefts across Thanet from 24 June to 16 July 2019.
Hard Time for Hard Nuts
At Canterbury Crown Court on 6 November 2019, both 25-year-olds pleaded guilty.
- Ryan Fountain – homeless – got three years for six offences. These included a home burglary on Margate Road, Ramsgate (10 July), riding in a stolen vehicle (14 July), and using a stolen bank card.
- Sam Crew – of Arlington Gardens, Margate – got four years and three months after admitting five offences, including a house break-in on St Michael’s Avenue and aggravated vehicle-taking.
They also confessed to burglarising three businesses on 15 July: a farm shop in Birchington, a Co-op in Broadstairs, and another shop on George Hill Road, Broadstairs.
Police Warn Residents: Lock Up, Stay Safe
Detective Constable Michael Kingwell said: “This investigation was tricky because of the many linked offences, but officers pieced together who was responsible.”
“We will keep hunting for other offenders to bring justice to victims.”
“We urge the public to secure their homes – lock doors and windows, use safes, security lighting, CCTV, and make your home look lived-in when you’re out.”
“Don’t give burglars a chance.”
