Two men have been jailed following a major police investigation into a series of high-value car thefts across Dudley and Sandwell, in which 15 vehicles worth nearly £250,000 were stolen from residents’ driveways while they slept.
Between September and December 2022, homes throughout the Black Country were targeted in an organised burglary operation. The thieves used a method known to police: snapping door locks, quietly entering properties, stealing car keys, and then fleeing with the vehicles.
The crime wave began on 5 September 2022, with a white Audi A3 stolen from Halesowen. That same vehicle was then linked to further burglaries and later recovered in Cradley wearing false plates.
Using a combination of CCTV footage, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) data, and forensic evidence, West Midlands Police tracked the suspects—David Shaikh, 22, of Quinton, and Tobias Williams, 20, of Oldbury.
When officers arrested the pair, they found car keys and cash linked to multiple burglaries. Both men were later charged and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit burglary and conspiracy to steal motor vehicles.
At Birmingham Crown Court on Monday, 7 April, the pair were sentenced as follows:
- David Shaikh: 5 years in prison
- Tobias Williams: 4 years and 2 months in prison
Detectives praised the teamwork involved in securing the convictions. A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said:
“These were calculated and invasive offences that caused huge distress to victims across the region. We’re pleased with the outcome and hope it provides reassurance to our communities.”
This case marks another success for the force’s efforts to crack down on organised car theft rings operating across the West Midlands. Residents are reminded to remain vigilant and ensure their home security is up to date.
Anyone with information about similar offences is encouraged to contact West Midlands Police via 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
