Burglar Who Stole Cabling From Substations Jailed

A burglar who posed as a workman and broke into several electricity substations across east Kent has been jailed.

Mark Baker, 40, admitted targeting sites between September and December 2025 that included Ashford, Canterbury and Herne Bay where dozens of homes were impacted by his crimes.

Kent Police was alerted on the morning of Wednesday 5th November 2025 that UK Power Networks premises in the coastal town had been broken into. Dressed in high visibility clothing and using specialist tools, Baker had forced his way into substations on Neville Road and Margate Road to steal copper earthing and safety equipment.

The incidents resulted in power outages and electrical damage to householders’ property, with the associated costs to business exceeding more than £220,000.

An investigation was launched and enquiries established that Baker had further burgled sites in Sandyhurst Lane, Guernsey Way and Eureka Park in Ashford. Detectives were also able to connect him with a break-in at a substation in Sutton Valence, Maidstone and sites in Canterbury.

Baker, of East Hall Walk, Sittingbourne, was arrested on Thursday 18th December 2025. Searches at his property led to the recovery of bolt croppers, metal cutters and several large batteries.

He was charged the following day.

Baker pleaded guilty to multiple offences and was sentenced at Canterbury Crown Court on Tuesday (10th March) to two years and nine months’ imprisonment.

Detective Sergeant Pete Frampton told SFM News: "Baker is a reckless offender whose crimes not only posed a serious risk to personal safety but also caused huge disruption to hundreds of people, and vast expense. Given the impact to local communities, and to business, it is right that he has received a custodial sentence and I hope he will reflect on the severity of his actions. It sends a clear message that those who would offend in this way should expect to be tracked down and brought before the courts."

Lee Craddock, Head of Security at UK Power Networks told SFM News: "Tampering with electrical infrastructure is extremely dangerous and also causes significant disruption for the wider community. We appeal to the public to inform police about any suspicious activity around the equipment which brings power to their home or business. Reporting a concern could prevent a power cut, or even save a life. Our thanks go to Kent Police for bringing this individual to justice and protecting public safety."