Jail time in the bag for prolific London criminal

A prolific criminal who amassed 30 convictions for bag theft and possession of criminal property in London between 2018-2020, has been jailed for three and a half years. This follows a lengthy joint investigation between the City of London Police Force Resolution Centre, and the Metropolitan Police CE Neighbourhoods Tasking Team.

Jhonatan Gilmar Palomares Strat, 36, from Peckham Hill Street, London SE15, appeared at Wood Green Crown Court on Friday 30^th April, where he received:

• three and a half years jail time;
• a deprivation order for more than £1500; and
• a 10 year criminal behaviour order banning him from entering any licensed bar, club, pub or eat-in only restaurant without a pre-made verifiable appointment or booking, unless for a prearranged legitimate work purpose (interview or work), within the inner boundary of the M25 Greater London.

Palomares Strat will also be eligible for deportation back to his home country of Peru on completion of his sentence.

Inspector Caroline Hay, City of London Police, said:

“This is a great example of how joint working between forces actively removes criminals from our streets. While the physical impact of Palomares Strat’s crimes is clear to see, the emotional impact of those he targeted is likely to be far greater. The total losses from these crimes have been estimated in excess of £40,000, but to the victims, the loss of photos, keepsakes and sentimental items will be priceless.

“Palomares Strat was a prolific offender whose crimes spanned a number of years. As lockdown eases and more people return to hospitality venues in the City we want criminals to know that behaviour like this will not be tolerated and our officers will do everything in their power to catch and convict offenders.”

Palomares Strat targeted licensed premises within London and used distraction theft techniques, such as replacing goods with a replica or ‘dummy’ in order to make his getaway.