Burglars who used Rightmove to plan raids jailed

Burglars who used Rightmove to plan raids jailed

Conviction and Sentences

A group of four individuals, convicted of orchestrating multiple burglaries across the UK, were sentenced to prison terms ranging from nine years to ten years and nine months. The group, consisting of Kristian Gropcaj, George Pepa, Krisjian Dedndreaj, and Sidorjan Lleshi, all admitted guilt for their crimes at Chester Crown Court. Endrit Nikolli, 27, will receive his sentence later. Jade Tubb, Nikolli’s partner from Walsall, confessed to conspiracy to possess stolen goods and was given a 12-month suspended sentence, along with 200 hours of community service.

Modus Operandi

The offenders targeted affluent homes by using Google to pinpoint wealthy postcodes and Rightmove to study property layouts. They often infiltrated residences via the upper floors, employing ladders to bypass alarm systems that only covered ground-level areas. Inside, they ransacked spaces, tearing bedsheets into makeshift bags to transport loot. In one instance, CCTV captured them removing an entire safe from a home. The gang, hailing from Albania, was tied to 59 high-value burglaries across eight counties, including Cheshire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire.

Investigation Breakthroughs

The case gained momentum after DNA evidence from a burglary in Staffordshire linked the suspects to multiple crimes. A distinctive shoeprint, found at several scenes, became pivotal. Though the trainers were commonly worn, the unique tread pattern offered critical clues. Police executed a series of raids, seizing 13 designer handbags and 14 watches valued at nearly £17,000. The gang’s systematic approach, targeting high-net-worth victims, left homeowners in a state of heightened fear.

“You have taken something from them that cannot be replaced,” stated Judge Patrick Thompson. “You have taken their sense of security in their own homes and left them feeling vulnerable and uneasy.”

Police Statement

Det Sgt Laura Fox of Cheshire Police highlighted the organized nature of the group. “Nikolli, Gropcaj, Dedndreaj, Pepa, and Lleshi were all actively involved in conducting the burglaries,” she said. “Tubb, meanwhile, was content to enjoy the proceeds of their illicit activities.” The gang’s strategy of setting weekly gold targets and exploiting property layouts underscored their calculated methods. Their actions left victims grappling with anxiety and paranoia, as noted by the judge in his remarks.