Woman jailed for theft and fraud spree in Milton Keynes area

A prolific thief who targeted vehicles across Milton Keynes before using stolen bank cards to make fraudulent purchases has been jailed.

Leigh Ashwell, 37, of no fixed address, was sentenced to eight months’ imprisonment at Milton Keynes Magistrates’ Court on 3 September after pleading guilty to 18 offences.

She pleaded guilty to nine counts of vehicle interference, five counts of fraud by false representation, theft from a shop, theft from the person of another, theft from a motor vehicle and attempted theft from a motor vehicle.

The offences took place between 21 June and 16 August this year in multiple locations across Milton Keynes such as Bletchley, Willen, Tinkers Bridge, Bancroft Park, Wolverton Mill and Greenleys.

Ashwell regularly targeted parked vehicles, trying door handles before stealing wallets, purses and other personal property. She then used stolen bank cards at local petrol stations and shops.

On 20 June, Ashwell stole a wallet from a vehicle before using the victim’s bank cards at BP Saxon Street, Esso Fenny Stratford and Morrisons Daily in Queensway.

A week later, she stole two Amazon parcels from an address in Tinkers Bridge in a theft that was captured on doorbell footage.

On 6 July, Ashwell stole bank cards, a driving licence and Meta glasses from a Porsche before using the cards at BP Conniburrow. She also stole a purse and baby changing bag from a Range Rover before using the victim’s bank cards at Texaco in Bradwell Common.

Police Staff Investigator Barbara Elekes, based at Milton Keynes police station, said, “Leigh Ashwell repeatedly targeted members of the public, stealing personal belongings from vehicles and then using stolen bank cards to make fraudulent purchases.

“Her actions caused financial loss, inconvenience and distress to a number of people across Milton Keynes.

“I would like to thank the victims who supported our investigation, as well as the members of the public who provided information and footage that helped us build the case against Ashwell.”