A 20-year-old Algerian man faced the Bruges criminal court for 19 thefts and six counts of computer fraud. The accused, Adlen K., primarily stole handbags and backpacks, and the prosecution has demanded a 30-month prison sentence.
CCTV footage revealed that on 22 September 2024, Adlen K. committed two thefts in Blankenberge. At a restaurant, he stole a woman’s handbag and from another bag, he took a wallet. The accused then made three transactions using the victim’s bank card. Shortly after, he was arrested at the station.
Investigators found pictures of laptops, mobile phones, and ID cards on the Algerian’s phone, linking him to an additional 17 similar thefts. K. exploited moments of distraction to steal items like backpacks and handbags, targeting places such as trains and airports. Most incidents occurred in Brussels, but he also struck in Leuven, Ghent, and Tielt.
The prosecution noted that the Algerian was frequently involved in thefts over three months, suggesting he had a market for the stolen goods, according to prosecutor Mike Vanneste. Moreover, K. was already sentenced in absentia to eight months in prison in Leuven in October 2024. Consequently, the prosecution called for a 30-month prison sentence.
Adlen K. claimed he could not recall the events due to alcohol and drug use. His lawyer, Gregory Everaert, stated the thefts were committed to sustain himself and that K. had since reformed while in custody. The defence pushed for a suspended sentence, excluding the ten months already served.
The judge will deliver the verdict on 31 July.
