Jaguar Thief Jailed After Test Drive Terror
A Chippenham man has been locked up for nearly four years after stealing a Jaguar XF during a test drive and threatening the terrified seller.
Callum Foster’s Shocking Robbery
Callum Foster, 27, with no fixed address, appeared at Winchester Crown Court on Wednesday, 13 August. He pleaded guilty to robbery, driving without a licence, and driving without insurance. The shocking crime took place on 19 May in Bath, where Foster had arranged to test drive the Jaguar, claiming he was interested in buying it.
Instead of completing the sale, Foster suggested a detour to Devizes “to collect payment.” But he drove the victim to Salisbury Plain, brandished what the victim thought was a gun, and said he had been “sent to kill him.” Foster then forced the man to drive to Bradford-on-Avon train station, where he was abandoned before Foster made off with the car.
Rapid Police Action Lands Foster Behind Bars
The very next day, cops tracked the stolen Jaguar to Leigh Delamere services on the M4 and arrested Foster. A second man caught with him was released with no charges. Alongside his prison term, Foster received six penalty points on his licence and a £228 victim surcharge.
Detective Sergeant Toni Nugent said: “This was a hugely distressing incident for the victim. Foster caused him to fear that violence would be used if he didn’t comply, and then stole his car. The car had been advertised for sale, and through trusting a stranger, the victim was taken advantage of. Many police units and departments worked together to ensure this case came to court, where Foster pleaded guilty to all offences.”
Advice for Online Car Buyers and Sellers
Police urge anyone buying or selling cars online to follow safety guidelines. Check your force’s website for tips to avoid falling victim to similar crimes.
