Smash-and-Grab Thief Jailed After Public Stops His Getaway
A brazen smash-and-grab raid at a west London jewellers ended in jail for one thief – thanks to quick-thinking members of the public.
Ben Wegener, 34, with no fixed address, was slammed with a 10-year prison sentence at Isleworth Crown Court on 16 January. He pleaded guilty to robbery, dangerous driving, possession of an offensive weapon, criminal damage, and receiving stolen goods.
Luxury Store Rammed by Stolen Range Rover
Wegener and two accomplices crashed a black stolen Range Rover through the front of a jewellery shop on Uxbridge Road, Shepherds Bush. Shoppers inside had a lucky escape as the vehicle smashed the shop’s windows.
- The robbers smashed glass display cases with hammers and stuffed jewellery into bags.
- Chaos erupted as crowds gathered, but Wegener’s escape bid was halted by citizens on the scene.
Public Heroics Stop Robber in His Tracks
Members of the public tackled and held Wegener until police arrived minutes later. The Range Rover was confirmed stolen from Wandsworth earlier that month, sporting fake number plates.
“This was a reckless robbery on a busy high street. It was sheer luck no one was seriously hurt when the vehicle smashed through the shop front,” said Detective Constable Sam Weller.
“The robbers also threatened the shop owner and customers with serious violence.”
Weller praised the public for their bravery: “They chased down and detained Wegener, stopping the raid in its tracks. Wegener will now serve a significant jail term.”
Two Accomplices Still on the Run
Unfortunately, the other two accomplices fled and remain at large. Police urge anyone with information to contact them on 101 or via Twitter @MetCC quoting CAD 5782/25 Oct.
