London's 'most prolific gym thief' has been sentenced to two years in prison for stealing more than £60,000 worth of luxury watches from gyms across the capital. Paul Hughes, 59, admitted to seven counts of theft and one count of fraud at Inner London Crown Court.
Details of the Thefts
Hughes targeted gyms in the City of London between July 30, 2024, and March 10, 2025, stealing watches valued at a total of £62,107. On February 19, 2025, he stole a £15,000 watch from a locker at a gym on Fenchurch Street in the financial district. CCTV footage showed him entering the gym, picking up a towel to cover his face, and heading to the changing room. He then left without using any facilities.
In another incident, Hughes stole a £12,000 luxury watch from a gym inside a hotel on Poultry. The victim discovered their locker door slightly ajar upon returning.
Police Statement
Police Constable Emilie Cox of the City of London Police's Volume Crime Unit stated: 'Hughes is a prolific offender who deliberately targeted luxury facilities, accessing changing rooms and stealing from lockers while victims exercised. The stolen items were of high value and sentimental, and some cannot be replaced. Gym-goers expect their belongings to be safe, but criminals like Hughes exploit that trust.'
Hughes, of Tile Hill Lane, Coventry, was sentenced to two years in prison. The case highlights the importance of securing valuables in public places.
