A brazen thief crashed a stolen Range Rover through Bognor’s Arcade shopping centre to raid a jeweller, but it’s Freddie Stevens who’s now behind bars.
Smash-and-grab raid caught on camera
On November 11, two Range Rovers were reported stolen from Yapton and Pulborough. Minutes later, one of the luxury cars was used as a battering ram at The Arcade in Bognor Regis. CCTV showed the vehicle smashing through a shutter on High Street before tearing along the pedestrianised walkway, causing damage at a Belmont Street entrance en route.
£30k of bling nicked in Christmas raid
Stevens, 22, from Bordon, Hampshire, was pinched as one of the crooks forcing entry into Clayden and Co jewellers. The store owner revealed around £30,000 worth of jewellery went missing – almost half their stock – devastating the shop just before Christmas.
Quick police work brings raid to an end
- An alarm went off at 2.12am. Officers reached the scene within four minutes, but the robbers had already fled.
- The burntout Range Rover Evoque was found on the A29 near Slindon, tracing a path to Stevens’ home.
- Police found Stevens’ DNA at the scene, sealing his involvement.
Stevens pleaded guilty to burglary and two counts of vehicle theft at Chichester Crown Court. He was sentenced to two years in prison on January 27.
Community reaction and police statement
“This was a shocking incident that caused significant disruption to businesses and the community,” said District Commander Chief Inspector Adam McCaig. “Thanks to the swift response and strong public support, Stevens had no choice but to plead guilty. I’m pleased he’s now serving time.”
The Arcade was forced to close for two days while repairs were carried out following the smash-and-grab.
Witnesses or anyone with information can contact Sussex Police online quoting serial 71 of 11/11/2026 or anonymously reach out to CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.
