Two prolific burglars who were caught just 150 metres away from a house they had broken into have been sentenced to 20 months in prison following an investigation that linked them to multiple thefts across Redbridge.
Burglars Caught Red-Handed
On the evening of Sunday, December 15, 2024, officers responded to a break-in on Mansted Gardens, Chadwell Heath. Within just 30 minutes, responding officers had blocked off escape routes, forcing the suspects to flee on foot toward the High Road.
Following a foot chase, both offenders were detained and arrested.
Stolen Goods Recovered
A search of the suspects led officers to recover:
- Two gold rings
- Two gold bangles
- Three gold necklaces
All of these items had been stolen from the property.
Further investigation linked the two men to other break-ins, including another burglary in Mansted Gardens, where a safe containing £25,000 worth of gold and £3,000 cash was stolen.
Sentencing and Convictions
The suspects, identified as:
- Geani Bogonos, 42, of Freshwell Avenue, Chadwell Heath
- Vasile Filip, 26, of Southend Road, East Ham
They pleaded guilty at their first hearing and were sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Monday, February 3, 2025.
- Bogonos was convicted of two burglaries, with three further offences taken into consideration.
- Filip was convicted of one burglary, with three additional offences taken into account.
All offences occurred between October and November 2024 in Redbridge.
Police Statement
PC David Izard, the lead officer in the case, said:
“Burglaries are a huge intrusion of privacy and have a lasting impact on communities. As highlighted here, our officers responded at speed and showed real bravery to track, chase, and detain the suspects.”
“The team then conducted a thorough investigation which showed Bogonos and Filip to be serial offenders – and ultimately led to them being taken off our streets.”
Ongoing Police Efforts
As part of the Metropolitan Police’s ongoing response to burglary prevention, officers continue to patrol hotspot areas, providing a high visibility presence and crime prevention advice.
Residents with concerns about burglaries or suspicious activity are encouraged to contact their local policing team or visit the Metropolitan Police website for further information.
