A prolific mobile phone thief who stole multiple devices during a morning crime spree in central London — including one belonging to a blind woman who was knocked to the ground — has been jailed for two years and three months.
Oliver Brady, 27, of Grange Road, Edmonton, admitted a series of offences after being caught with nine phones on February 6, 2025. He also assaulted a security officer, Alex South, who helped detain him outside Haberdashers’ Hall in the City of London.
Brady, riding an illegal electric bike, targeted commuters during the morning rush hour, snatching phones from pedestrians. He was later found in possession of seven additional devices, many reported stolen earlier that day.
Among the stolen property was the phone of Neda Rana, a visually impaired woman.
Speaking after the incident, Ms Rana said:
“I felt my phone being removed from my hand. The force caused me to fall to the floor. It was an emotionally exhausting and distressing experience. I couldn’t even call anyone for help.”
Although Brady was not charged with stealing Ms Rana’s phone, he admitted handling stolen goods relating to it.
During his arrest, Brady was found with cash and tin foil, commonly used by criminals to block phone tracking. He claimed the foil was used for wrapping an injured knee, a claim rejected by the court.
Victims Speak Out About the Impact
Nicky Jones, 51, another victim, said she was just metres from her office when Brady snatched her phone:
“I shouted ‘stop’ and security guards managed to detain him. He tried to get back on his bike but was held down until police arrived. It made me wary of using my phone in public again.”
Several of the stolen phones have since been returned to their owners, though three remain unclaimed.
Court Hears of Brady’s Criminal History
Prosecutor Neil Sturman revealed Brady had 40 previous convictions for 74 offences, including persistent breaches of criminal behaviour orders.
“The loss of a mobile phone today can cause enormous disruption given the personal data it contains,” Mr Sturman said.
Defending, Malcolm Duxbury said Brady had aspirations to become a professional footballer before being stabbed, which led to substance abuse issues and a life of crime.
Judge Lynn Tayton KC acknowledged Brady’s troubled background but stressed the impact on victims, stating:
“The inconvenience when someone loses their mobile phone is enormous in our current lives. I hope you can change your path — you are still young and have your whole life ahead.”
Brady, who has been in custody since February 2, has reportedly begun taking positive steps while in prison.
He was also ordered to pay a statutory victim surcharge of £288.
Police Praise Public’s Role
Detective Sergeant Dominic Lawson from City of London Police praised members of the public who intervened:
“The successful capture and prosecution of a prolific phone snatcher shows our focus on keeping Londoners safe. Thanks to public intervention, we were able to return phones and bring Brady to justice.”
City of London Police have also installed blue plaques across the city to highlight theft hotspots and encourage vigilance. Officers continue to urge the public to set up Medical ID on smartphones, enabling next-of-kin contact if devices are stolen.
