Mark Baker, 40, has been locked up for stealing copper cabling from electricity substations across East Kent. Posing as a workman in high-vis gear, he forced his way into sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Herne Bay between September and December 2025, leaving dozens of homes powerless.
Power Cuts and £220,000 Damage
The heists triggered widespread power outages and costly damage, with losses topping £220,000. Baker targeted substations on Neville Road and Margate Road in Herne Bay, stealing copper earthing and safety equipment with specialist tools.
Police linked him to break-ins at sites in Sandyhurst Lane, Guernsey Way, Eureka Park (Ashford), Sutton Valence (Maidstone), and Canterbury.
Arrested After Police Raids
Captured on 18 December 2025, Baker’s home in Sittingbourne was searched, where officers found bolt croppers, metal cutters, and large batteries. He was charged the very next day.
Custodial Sentence Sends Strong Warning
At Canterbury Crown Court on 10 March 2026, Baker pleaded guilty to multiple offences and was sentenced to two years and nine months behind bars.
“Baker is a reckless offender whose crimes not only posed a serious risk to personal safety but also caused huge disruption to hundreds of people, and vast expense,” said Detective Sergeant Pete Frampton. “This sentence sends a clear message: offenders will be caught and punished.”
Lee Craddock, head of security at UK Power Networks, added: “Tampering with electrical infrastructure is extremely dangerous and causes major disruption. We urge the public to report any suspicious behaviour around power equipment—it could stop power cuts or even save lives. Thanks to Kent Police for bringing this criminal to justice.”
