Hospital Heist Gang Nabbed After Stealing Nitrous Oxide Canisters Across North
Four Caught After Hospital Break-Ins
A Norfolk gang smashed hospitals in County Durham, Stockport, and Manchester, stealing nitrous oxide canisters used for pain relief and childbirth. The crime spree happened between March 21 and 23.
Oliver Zak Henry Evans, 22, Harry David Bradley Goodrum, 23, Jake Alexander Roberts, 23, and Wayne John Grady, 41, faced Teesside Crown Court today. They all admitted conspiracy to commit burglary.
Canister Theft From Multiple Hospitals
- First break-in at Stepping Hill Hospital, Stockport — two nitrous oxide canisters stolen.
- Next, Withington Hospital, Manchester — eight more stolen, including “gas and air” used in childbirth.
- Early hours raid at Chester-le-Street Community Hospital, County Durham — more canisters taken after smashing a storage unit.
- Theft continued at Bishop Auckland Hospital and Darlington Memorial Hospital, where they nabbed 14 cans, loaded into a BMW with stolen plates.
Police Catch Gang on the Road
Lincolnshire Police stopped the gang’s van at a service station, finding 29 gas canisters inside. Two men were arrested there. The other two were nabbed by North Yorkshire Police in the BMW.
Each culprit received a four-year jail sentence from Recorder Paul Watson QC.
Scathing Words From Police
“This was an absolutely despicable crime,” said Detective Constable Helen Hudson of Durham Constabulary. “They deliberately targeted hospitals under enormous strain due to the pandemic.”
“Removing these canisters showed a complete disregard for patient safety. Their actions put countless lives at risk during a critical time.”
“We hope this sentence makes them reflect on what they’ve done.”
“Thanks go to police forces in North Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Greater Manchester for their help in securing justice.”
