Man charged following series of car thefts across West Kent

A man has been charged following an investigation into a series of vehicle thefts reported across West Kent earlier this year.

Kent Police launched an investigation after three vehicles were reported stolen between 3 April and 13 May 2026 in Leybourne, Otford and Sevenoaks.

According to officers, two of the incidents involved burglars allegedly entering victims' homes to steal car keys before driving away in the vehicles, highlighting a type of offence that police have repeatedly warned residents about.

Following enquiries, a suspect was arrested on 28 May and later released on bail while the investigation continued.

On 8 July, Liam Cook, 34, of Shoreham Road, Orpington, was charged with:

• two counts of burglary
• three counts of theft of a motor vehicle
• driving while disqualified

Cook appeared before Sevenoaks Magistrates' Court, where he was remanded into custody.

He is due to appear next at Maidstone Crown Court on 6 August 2026.

Police continue to encourage residents to take extra precautions to protect vehicle keys by keeping them out of sight, away from doors and windows, and considering the use of signal-blocking pouches for keyless entry vehicles.

Original Kent Police article: Man charged following car thefts in west Kent