Phone Theft Duo Jailed in London

Sonny Stringer, dubbed "London's most notorious phone snatcher," was apprehended after a dramatic police chase that reached speeds of nearly 50mph. The incident unfolded on March 26 when Stringer, riding an electric bike with an accomplice, began a theft spree in the City of London, targeting pedestrians. His first victim was a woman on Blackfriars Bridge, who had her iPhone 15 snatched from her hand. CCTV operators tracked the duo as they navigated the financial district, alerting police to their movements. The thieves' reckless behavior nearly resulted in serious injury when they almost collided with pedestrians at a crossing on Fetter Lane. In a bid to protect the public, advanced police driver PC Smith executed a tactical maneuver, making contact with Stringer's bike near Bank Tube station, causing him to fall off. During the incident, Stringer was found in possession of a bag containing 22 stolen phones, with two falling out upon his arrest. Following his guilty plea in June, Stringer was sentenced last week at Isleworth Crown Court to 20 months for theft and an additional four months for dangerous driving. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings while using mobile phones in public spaces, as highlighted by Chief Superintendent William Duffy.