One of McKinney’s most elaborate schemes involved the theft of a Rolex watch. In January 2024, he pawned the watch for £2,500 at a Penzance jewellery shop using a stolen credit card. He later returned to the shop, using a sleight-of-hand tactic to take the watch while staff were distracted, leaving with both the watch and the money. When questioned, McKinney initially attempted to implicate the shop itself as the victim.
Detective Constable Jane Bickley, the officer in the case, said, “McKinney’s offences demonstrate a high degree of sophistication. He showed no regard for the victims he exploited, who are left dealing with the consequences of his deceit.”
McKinney’s arrest was a result of a speeding offence linked to his fraudulent activities, leading to further investigations that uncovered the breadth of his crimes. His actions sparked a complex, multi-agency investigation involving HM Passport Agency, HMRC, the DVLA, DVSA, and numerous banks.
Authorities are encouraging anyone affected by crime to contact Victim Support for assistance.
