Three men have been sentenced to prison after authorities in Birmingham, England, linked them to the theft of nearly £2 million, roughly $2.7 million, worth of vehicles during an eight-month crime spree. Callum James, 24, Jack Bardini, 18, and Deche Luton-Howe, 25, were sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court on February 12 for their roles in a string of burglaries and vehicle thefts committed between August 2024 and April 2025.
Breaking In, Stealing Keys, Driving Off
West Midlands Police said the group targeted high-end vehicles by breaking into homes, stealing car keys, and simply driving away in the vehicles left inside. Investigators say the suspects then installed false number plates on the stolen cars to dodge detection while driving around with them.
The Evidence That Sealed the Case: Their Own Videos
During the investigation, police recovered video footage the men had recorded of themselves committing the crimes, evidence that ultimately worked against them in court. The footage showed James and Bardini filming as they entered properties, posing beside a stolen BMW, removing its number plates, and driving the car in circles for the camera. Authorities say Luton-Howe was the one who supplied the fraudulent number plates used on the stolen vehicles.
More Than 100 Charges Between Them
Prosecutors brought more than 100 combined offenses against the group. James pleaded guilty to 75 counts, including conspiracy to commit burglary, conspiracy to steal motor vehicles, and conspiracy to conceal criminal property. Bardini admitted to 31 counts covering the same charges. Luton-Howe pleaded guilty to possession and control of articles for use in fraud, along with making and supplying articles for fraud connected to the counterfeit plates.
James was sentenced to nine years in prison. Bardini received six years and nine months, and Luton-Howe was sentenced to two years and three months. Authorities say the investigation dismantled the group’s operation entirely and brought their theft spree to a definitive end.