A UK court has sentenced a British couple, Ashley Singh, 39, and Sophie Bruyea, 20, to prison after they funded lavish holidays by stealing £250,000 (Dh1.16 million) from gym-goers’ lockers. The couple embarked on a year-long spree across London and Southeast England, targeting unsuspecting gym members by stealing their bank and SIM cards.
The stolen cards were then maxed out to purchase high-end technology and designer clothing, which Singh and Bruyea later sold for cash. The proceeds funded luxurious vacations in Dubai and Paris, along with extravagant purchases like a pedigree puppy, and expensive shoes and bags. The couple frequently showcased their opulent lifestyle on social media, with posts showing them at elite Dubai locations such as the Burj Al Arab and Aura Skypool in Palm Jumeirah.
Their actions, described as ‘wicked crimes’ by the court, caused considerable distress and financial loss to their 18 victims, many of whom were professionals. The trial at Croydon Crown Court underlined the extensive emotional and financial impact on the victims.
Investigations revealed 18 fraud reports, primarily in the Metropolitan Police area, with others in Sussex, Hertfordshire, and Cambridgeshire. The crime spree concluded when the couple was arrested at Gatwick Airport, returning from Paris with £1,700 worth of designer goods, on January 27 last year.
Charged with conspiracy to commit fraud by false representation from January 2022 to January 2023, Singh received a three-year jail term, while Bruyea’s 20-month sentence was suspended for two years. The Metropolitan Police noted the couple strategically targeted victims during workouts, including purchases from luxury brands like Prada.
