Thief Caught Red-Handed with Knives After Bizarre Copper Heist
Nathan Mahoney, 39, got caught red-handed stripping copper from eight industrial fridges with an electric saw in Eldon Way. Police later found weapons in his vehicle during the arrest. The brazen break-in happened on 16 December 2019.
Repeat Theft and Dangerous Getaway
Mahoney struck again on 10 February 2020, stealing an air conditioning unit from the same site—already damaged from his earlier raid.
On 22 May, cops spotted Mahoney driving a flatbed truck dangerously in the Wrotham Heath area. When police gave chase, he ditched the truck in West Malling and tried to flee on foot. Officers swiftly caught him.
A search of the vehicle uncovered a lock knife and a kitchen knife, raising alarm bells.
Jail Time and Driving Ban for Criminal
Mahoney, from Acorn Close, Five Oak Green, admitted to criminal damage and theft for the December break-in. He also pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, driving without insurance, and driving while disqualified.
He denied carrying knives in public but was found guilty after a trial.
On Friday 13 November, Maidstone Crown Court handed Mahoney a 22-month prison sentence. He was banned from driving for nearly two years and must pass an extended driving test before getting back on the road.
Police Crack Down on Local Crime
PC Kady Cartwright of Tunbridge Wells Community Policing said: “Prolific offenders such as Mahoney are a real burden to local businesses and their actions often have a profound and lasting impact within the local communities where they commit crime.”
“The cost of repairs and loss of stock from the damage came to more than £33,000. Tackling theft and burglary remains a high priority for Kent Police. We have teams across the county dedicated to catching offenders like Mahoney.”
