Ruthless gang stole Duchess’s Cartier tiara

A £3.75 million jewellery collection, including a Cartier tiara, was stolen in a series of 'ruthlessly executed' home raids by a six membered gang. The gang then approached football players in another set of raids, threatening to "cut the fingers" of one of England's most capped players.

In 2018 Nottingham Crown Court described the theft of the 'Portland Tiara', and associated brooch, from the Welbeck Estate as a "shocking event". Highlighting that they would never be seen in their original state again.

The prosecutor, detailing the theft, said: "Stolen during the burglary were two pieces of diamond-encrusted jewellery, the Portland Tiara, and an associated brooch with a combined value of £3.75million. It is difficult to overstate the importance and cultural value of these pieces of jewellery."

"They were displayed for the public's enjoyment. The theft is a shocking event and means that they will never again be seen in their original state."

Furthermore, the prosecutor Michael Brady QC said that two former England internationals, Tom Huddlestone and Ashley Cole were also targeted. The gang, Kelly Duong, Ashley Cumberpatch, Kurtis Dilks, Matthew Johnson, Adrian Eddishaw and Andrew MacDonald are all accused of conspiracy to commit burglary, in connection with the series of raids.

Mr Cumberpatch, Mr MacDonald, and Mr Dilks are accused of robbing Ashley Cole, former Premier League defender, in his Surrey home in January 2020. The footballer who won 107 caps for his country, was "led around his home" whilst only wearing shorts. At the time, the gang threatened to mutilate his hand.

Mr Brady, the prosecutor said: "Mr Cole mentioned that one of the attackers, a stocky more aggressive man who spoke with an Irish accent, kept saying 'lets cut his fingers' whilst armed with a pair of pliers".

The court was told how Ashley Coles partner, Sharon Canu, hid in the wardrobe and called the police. The thieves fled when officers arrived, taking with them mobile phones and five designer watches.

In Nottingham, former Premier league footballer Tom Huddlestone and his partner Joanna Dixon were targeted at their home. The couple had their hands tied behind their back with cable ties.

"They were armed with weapons and the presence of children did not perturb them." Mr Brady said.

It has been alleged that "professional handlers", Sercan Evsin and Tevfik Guccuk, were instructed to sell the stolen goods at Hatton Garden Jewellers. However, all defendants deny the various charges against them all. 

PM Law 

Sheffield Solicitors