BREAKING: A man has been fined £388.30 after pleading guilty to stealing luggage from a breastfeeding mother at Gatwick Airport, marking a shocking incident that has left the victim feeling unsafe in public.
John Brooks, aged 52, from Crawley, committed the theft on October 30, 2025, while the mother was in a baby care room in the South Terminal. This opportunistic crime occurred during a vulnerable moment, as the mother was unable to take her luggage into the room with her.
The mother described the traumatic experience, stating she felt “shaking and frightened” and has struggled to sleep since the incident. “What happened has changed the way we feel in public spaces,” she said in a victim impact statement, highlighting the emotional toll it has taken on her and her family.
In a session at Crawley Magistrates Court, Brooks confirmed his identity and faced the consequences of his actions. He admitted to stealing a suitcase and a child’s backpack, along with causing £88.30 worth of damage to a security barrier during his escape. Prosecutor Amy Fraser described the scene, noting that Brooks, appearing intoxicated, lingered by the luggage trolley before making off with the bags.
After breaking through the barrier with his head, which subsequently bent and broke, Brooks was apprehended, and the stolen luggage was recovered. The court revealed that Brooks has an extensive criminal history, with 37 previous convictions for 72 offences, including 42 theft-related crimes.
In addition to the fine, Brooks was ordered to pay £300 in compensation to the victim, underlining the court’s recognition of the crime’s impact.
A representative from London Gatwick spoke out following the incident, emphasizing that the airport provides specially equipped rooms for breastfeeding and baby changing, clearly signposted to support families traveling with young children.
This unsettling event serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by parents in public spaces and raises awareness about the importance of security in busy travel environments. As the victim contemplates seeking therapy to cope with the aftermath, this case is likely to prompt discussions about safety measures in airports across the globe.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as authorities continue to address public safety in the wake of such crimes.
