Authorities are on the lookout for Kerry Ann Stevens, a former solicitor recently struck off, who is wanted after skipping bail.
- Stevens was previously convicted for ‘dine and dash’ incidents amounting to £104.38 at a restaurant and with a delivery service.
- The police have reached out for public assistance in locating Stevens, linked with ongoing investigations regarding unpaid taxi and restaurant bills.
- Both Stevens and another individual, Daniel Alani, have been directed not to enter any food-serving premises following their release on bail.
- Operation Raker continues to secure multiple convictions, focusing efforts on theft and public order offences in Southend.
The police have issued an appeal for information regarding the whereabouts of Kerry Ann Stevens, a criminal defence solicitor who has been struck off following her conviction for two ‘dine and dash’ incidents. Stevens is alleged to have failed to pay a total of £104.38 at a Harvester restaurant and to a Just Eat delivery driver.
The incidents which led to Stevens’ conviction occurred between 2020 and 2021, where she was allegedly unable to pay as her bank card was in the possession of her boyfriend who had left the restaurant earlier. In the case of the Just Eat delivery, Stevens asserted she had already paid online, subsequently closing the door on the delivery driver who attempted to confirm the payment.
In a separate statement, the Essex Police have also expressed interest in speaking to Daniel Alani, alongside Stevens. These individuals are linked to ongoing investigations concerning the non-payment of taxi fares and restaurant bills, and notably, both failed to answer police bail last month.
Under their bail conditions, Stevens and Alani are prohibited from entering any licensed establishments serving food where payment is required prior to consumption. As part of a broader ongoing initiative, the police continue to enforce Operation Raker, a strategic effort focusing on theft, assault, and public order offences in the Southend area.
The Suffolk Magistrates’ Court had previously taken measures against Stevens, convicting her in March 2022 for making false representations under the Fraud Act 2006. Stevens received a fine, an order for compensation, and incurred additional costs and surcharges. The tribunal noted that her actions were deliberate, motivated by personal financial gain, and assessed her culpability accordingly.
The search for Stevens and Alani highlights ongoing efforts to address related criminal activities under Operation Raker.
