A man who ingratiated himself with strangers on the streets of Cardiff, engaging them in conversation before discreetly stealing their phones and wallets, now faces deportation. Anis Bardich, a Moroccan national, was found guilty of carrying out “distraction-type thefts” by using tactics such as pretending to high-five his victims or behaving jovially before reaching into their pockets. Cardiff Crown Court heard how Bardich would then attempt to use the stolen cards in nearby shops or withdraw cash, causing significant distress to his victims.
Leah Pollard, the prosecutor, outlined three separate incidents where Bardich targeted unsuspecting individuals in Cardiff city centre. In the first incident on High Street, Bardich approached a man, engaged in a brief conversation, and then stole his phone while pretending to give a high-five. The victim noticed the theft and managed to retrieve his phone after locating Bardich on Quay Street. The following two thefts occurred near St Andrew’s Place and St Mary’s Street, where Bardich used similar tactics to steal from his victims, leading to further distress and inconvenience.
Victims shared the impact of Bardich’s actions, detailing not just the hassle of losing their belongings but also the worry of having personal information compromised. Bardich, who had a history of similar offences, pleaded guilty to three counts of theft and six counts of fraud at his sentencing. His defence counsel highlighted Bardich’s challenging upbringing in Morocco and his subsequent struggles, including homelessness and mental health issues.
Judge Eugene Egan condemned Bardich’s deliberate targeting of vulnerable individuals, noting the significant hardship and concern caused by the thefts. Despite initially considering a community-based sentence, the judge sentenced Bardich to 60 weeks in prison, with a one-quarter discount for his guilty pleas. The Probation Service, informed of the Home Office’s deportation plans, adjusted its sentencing recommendation accordingly, leading to Bardich facing immediate custody.
The case serves as a reminder of the impact of opportunistic crimes on victims and the importance of accountability for offenders. Bardich’s actions not only caused material losses but also instilled fear and caution in those affected. As Bardich awaits deportation proceedings, his case underscores the need for measures to address the root causes of criminal behaviour, including support for individuals facing challenges such as homelessness and mental health issues.
Authorities continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to prevent such incidents in the future. By raising awareness and fostering a community approach to safety, individuals can better protect themselves and others from falling victim to similar crimes. As Bardich’s case concludes, it prompts reflection on the impact of theft on individuals and communities, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in addressing complex issues of crime and punishment.