Essex Police have intensified their search for a former solicitor who is currently on the run, despite four active warrants for her arrest and her recent removal from the Roll of Solicitors. Kerry Ann Stevens, aged 40, has repeatedly failed to appear in court, with at least nine missed appearances, prompting authorities to release a new mugshot in a bid to locate her.
Multiple Charges and Court Absences
Stevens faces serious legal allegations, including 11 counts of making off without payment and one count of theft from a shop. She has denied these offences and is scheduled to face trial later this year. Her partner, Daniel Alani, 39, has also failed to attend court, notably missing a sentencing hearing at Ipswich Crown Court. The court accepted his excuse for absence, so no arrest warrant was issued for him at that time.
Alleged Dine-and-Dash Incidents
The couple, both previously residing in the Southend area, first gained notoriety for allegedly engaging in dine-and-dash activities at restaurants and evading taxi fares. One notable incident involved them fleeing The Castle Inn without paying a £62.20 bill, which included items such as prawn cocktail, breaded mushrooms, two roast chicken dinners with extra lamb, and beverages like cokes, orange juice, and pinot wine. Landlord Ken Todd, 76, expressed frustration, stating he would have simply given them the food if they were in need.
During that incident, the man attempted to escape through a locked back door, while the woman tried to leave via a bathroom window. This pattern of behaviour has led to multiple accusations across Essex, with police investigating several similar cases.
Police Investigation and Arrests
Stevens and Alani were initially arrested on May 2, 2024, after officers visited an address in Great Wakering, near Southend, Essex. At that time, they were questioned on three counts of making off without payment and released on conditional bail, with a requirement to report back in late July. However, they failed to answer that bail, prompting Essex Police to issue a public appeal for information about their whereabouts.
In addition to the dine-and-dash allegations, the couple has been accused of dodging taxi fares. One cab driver reported that Stevens screamed at him when he refused to accept a phone charger as payment instead of cash. Alani has since pleaded guilty to charges including theft, theft from a shop, and eight counts of making off without payment, with his sentencing now set for next Thursday.
Current Status and Public Appeal
Stevens was struck off as a solicitor in May 2024, adding to her legal troubles. She has known links to Shoebury and Westcliff in Essex, and authorities are urging anyone with information on her whereabouts to contact the police immediately. The release of the new mugshot aims to assist in her capture, as she remains at large with multiple warrants outstanding.
This case highlights ongoing issues with fraud and evasion in the region, with police continuing their efforts to bring Stevens to justice. The public is reminded to report any sightings or details that could aid in her arrest.
