Bodycam captures cops on ‘Hot Fuzz’ chase over fences after thief

By Elizabeth Hunter

This is the moment a thief tried to evade arrest by hopping fences — Hot Fuzz-style.

Kent Police officers arrived at an address in Maidstone, Kent to arrest Sean McFetridge in relation to a phone theft earlier this month.

But the 43-year-old managed to get away — jumping from a first-floor window and into the backyard.

McFetridge then started hopping over fences to try and get away — like a criminal does in the 2007 comedy Hot Fuzz.

Officers followed the crook and he was eventually arrested in another house, after being restrained by a member of the public.

While being interviewed, officers were also able to connect the suspect to a theft of meat from a shop on Loose Road the day before.

Acting Chief Inspector Zara McAinley for Maidstone said: "Our officers are dedicated to catching criminals and keeping members of the public safe, and this arrest shows just how committed they are.

"Sean McFetridge is a prolific offender who became brazen with his crimes.

"Instead of cooperating with officers, he decided to jump out of a window and over fences to try and evade arrest, while also causing distress to the occupants of the home he entered.

"Yet officers didn't hesitate to pursue him and he was caught in less than two minutes, following their quick-thinking and solid teamwork.

"Everyday officers go above and beyond in the line of duty and I am very proud of them all."

McFetridge, of Yalding, Kent was charged with two counts of theft and criminal damage.

He appeared at Medway Magistrates' Court on Saturday, April 18 where he pleaded guilty and was immediately sentenced to eight weeks' imprisonment.