A man who stole £11,500 worth of luggage from King’s Cross and Paddington stations has been jailed for 15 months.
Adam Newton, 25, took eight items of luggage from racks on trains about to depart from King’s Cross and Paddington stations in a two-day stealing spree on December 14 and 15 last year.
He boarded stationary trains and took bags containing laptops, clothing, binoculars and jewellery before getting off the train while it was still in the station.
Most victims did not realise their luggage had been stolen until they arrived at their destinations.
Five bags were later tracked down by British Transport Police (BTP) but some items were missing from them.
Newton had been jailed for stealing more than £20,000 worth of luggage from trains four years ago, Blackfriars Crown Court heard on Wednesday.
He pleaded guilty to eight counts of theft.
Det Con Dave Graney, of the BTP, said:“Newton is a prolific, persistent, thief who will now spend several months behind bars.
“He will have plenty of time to consider his actions and our prompt arrest should serve as a warning to him – and others – that British Transport Police will act swiftly to take action against thieves.
“Theft can be extremely personal as often the property stolen has sentimental as well as monetary value. It is, therefore, vital that all rail travellers are aware of their surroundings and keep a close eye on their belongings.”
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