On 29 May 2023, Marian Ghita travelled to the county town with three accomplices, intent on targeting a shop in Fremlin Walk.

At around midnight, three of the gang forced open the main door and stole mobile phones and tablets worth more than £11,000, from display cabinets at the front of the store.

Investigators from the Kent Crime Squad commenced an investigation and, following an examination of CCTV footage, identified two vehicles used by the criminals to travel into the area.

One of the cars, an Audi, was later connected to Ghita and found parked outside his home address in east London. The second, a Peugeot, was also located nearby.

Ghita, of Florence Gardens, Romford was arrested on 14 June and detectives were able to prove that he had travelled to and from Maidstone at around the time of the break-in.

He was charged with conspiracy to commit burglary and pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court. On Thursday 13 July, the 48-year-old was sentenced to two years and three months’ imprisonment.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Josh Littley, said: ‘Ghita was a member of an organised crime gang that counted on entering and leaving the county undetected. Their confidence was misplaced and a thorough investigation has brought one of the conspirators to justice.

‘Our message for these criminals is clear. If you choose to travel into Kent to offend, we will be relentless in our efforts to track you down and bring you before the courts at the earliest opportunity.’