Burglar Nabbed After High-Speed Chase in East Peckham
A daring burglary at a Co-op supermarket in East Peckham, Kent, ended with Jake Simms behind bars for two years. The 29-year-old from Southwark, Greater London, was caught after a rapid police chase and now faces multiple charges, including burglary, dangerous driving, and driving without a licence or insurance.
Late-Night Heist Goes Horribly Wrong
On June 23, 2023, just before midnight, Simms and an accomplice smashed into the Co-op on Pound Road. They stole two cash boxes and sped off in a black Toyota Prius. Thanks to quick-thinking witnesses who reported the getaway car, police were hot on their tail.
Chase Ends in Collision and Arrest
Patrols tracked Simms’ vehicle through southeast London with help from Metropolitan Police response teams. The chase ended when the criminals slammed their car into a police vehicle. Simms was caught in the driver’s seat, while a police dog handler later recovered tools tossed from the car — including a long screwdriver, gloves, and a hammer.
Sentenced to Two Years Behind Bars
Simms pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court. On January 23, 2024, he was sentenced to two years in prison, activating a previously suspended sentence. Upon release, he faces a two-year driving ban and an extended driving test.
Detective Constable Andrew Palmer said: “Simms and his accomplice thought targeting a rural supermarket outside London would help them evade capture. Their confidence was misplaced.”
“Simms showed a reckless disregard for road safety during the chase. His jail sentence is well deserved. Thanks to the public’s quick reporting, we arrested him fast and secured crucial evidence.”
This case proves once again that quick police response and community vigilance can stop criminals in their tracks.
