Two prolific shoplifters responsible for a string of thefts from a Tesco Express in Hackney have been identified and brought to justice following a determined investigation by the Metropolitan Police.
Garvey Powell, 45, and Carmen Sinclair, 47, were linked to more than 30 incidents of shoplifting from the Tesco Express on Old Street, Hackney, between July 2024 and March 2025. Their repeated thefts caused thousands of pounds in losses and prompted significant additional security measures by the store.
The investigation, carried out in close collaboration with Tesco staff, saw officers pore over more than 40 hours of CCTV footage to identify the suspects. In one remarkable show of dedication, a local officer worked a 33-hour shift to gather the necessary evidence and secure charges after Powell and Sinclair were arrested on Thursday, 13 March.
Wine Theft Operation
The pair’s offences were described as swift and coordinated. Powell, often carrying a large bag or rucksack, would fill it with bottles of wine while Sinclair acted as a lookout or assisted in grabbing items. On some days, they would strike the same store multiple times, stealing hundreds of pounds’ worth of wine in under a minute.
Sentencing and Court Action
Powell, of Aitken Close, Hackney, pleaded guilty to 19 counts of theft and breach of court bail. He was sentenced at Thames Magistrates’ Court on 18 March to nine months in prison and handed a five-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO). One of the key CBO conditions bans him from carrying a bag or rucksack in Hackney—a clear response to his method of operation.
Sinclair, of Whiston Road, Hackney, pleaded guilty to 12 counts of theft and is due to be sentenced at Stratford Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 22 April.
Police and Store Response
Sergeant Adam Hunter, from the Haggerston Neighbourhood Policing Team, said:
“We know shoplifting has a huge impact on businesses and also fuels other crime and anti-social behaviour. This outcome demonstrates our officers’ commitment to tackling issues that matter to Londoners.
This pair’s offending cost Tesco many thousands of pounds in stock and tens of thousands in additional security measures, and we’re pleased our investigation has brought them to justice.”
A Tesco spokesperson added:
“Every member of our team deserves to feel safe at work. We thank all police officers, store teams, and our internal security team who worked together on this case. We remain committed to making our stores, including Old Street Hackney Express, safe places to work and shop.”
This successful prosecution comes amid a wider Metropolitan Police effort to target retail crime across London, responding to rising concerns among both businesses and shoppers.
