Two sisters from West Sussex, Laura and Georgina Epitropou, are facing a combined payback order of £220,000 after being caught stealing from Gatwick Airport’s duty-free shops.
Both women, who live in Crawley, were sentenced to 2½ years in prison in September 2024 after pleading guilty to conspiracy to steal. In addition, Laura Epitropou admitted to acquiring criminal property.
At Lewes Crown Court on 16 February 2025, Laura was ordered to repay £182,090.99 within one month. Georgina was given three months to pay £37,487.85. Failure to comply with these orders could result in further legal consequences.
The sisters had stolen thousands of pounds worth of perfumes and cosmetics from Gatwick duty-free shops. Their theft was uncovered when airport police stopped them at Belfast Airport. Officers found £2,000 worth of stolen goods in their suitcase as they attempted to board a flight.
The Proceeds of Crime Act was used to issue the confiscation orders, which are designed to recover the financial benefits gained from criminal activity. The authorities have warned that if the sisters do not repay the full amounts, they risk additional jail time.
Originally published by UKNIP.
