A burglar who targeted a supermarket in East Peckham, Kent, has been sentenced to two years in prison after a rapid response by patrolling officers led to his arrest. Jake Simms, aged 29, of Long Lane, Southwark, Greater London, faced charges of burglary, dangerous driving, driving without a license, and driving without insurance.
The incident occurred on June 23, 2023, at 11:40 pm when Jake Simms, accompanied by an accomplice, arrived at the Co-op in Pound Road, East Peckham. They forcibly entered the premises and made off with two cash boxes before fleeing the scene in a car.
Witnesses promptly reported the incident, describing the criminals’ vehicle as a medium-sized black car. Responding patrols quickly identified the vehicle as a Toyota Prius and tracked it heading towards London. Collaborating with Metropolitan Police response officers, they pursued the suspects through southeast London. The chase concluded when the criminals’ car collided with a police vehicle, and Jake Simms was apprehended in the driver’s seat.
During the pursuit, a bag containing a long screwdriver, gloves, and a hammer was discarded from the vehicle and later recovered by a police dog handler.
Jake Simms pleaded guilty to all charges at Maidstone Crown Court. On January 23, 2024, he was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment, which also included the activation of a previously suspended sentence. In addition to his prison term, Simms will face a two-year driving disqualification upon release and must undergo an extended driving test.
Detective Constable Andrew Palmer, of the Kent Crime Squad, commended the swift response and collaboration between law enforcement agencies, stating, “Simms and his accomplice thought targeting a rural supermarket outside the capital city reduced the chances of being caught. Their confidence was misplaced, and some quick investigation ensured their getaway vehicle was identified and he was ultimately tracked down by patrols as he sped home.”
Palmer emphasized the dangerous driving exhibited by Simms during the pursuit, and he concluded, “Simms’ disregard for the safety of other road users was reprehensible, and it is entirely appropriate that he has been jailed. I would like to thank the members of the public who alerted us when they saw the burglary taking place, and this ensured his prompt arrest and the recovery of evidence vital to his conviction.” The successful apprehension of the burglar highlights the importance of community involvement in crime prevention and swift law enforcement responses.
