Arthur Clifton charged with encouraging theft and criminal damage linked to Take Back Power

A 25-year-old man from Lambeth has been charged with encouraging criminal offences, the Metropolitan Police said. Arthur Clifton, of Gipsy Road, faces a single charge under sections 46 and 58 of the Serious Crime Act 2007. The offence carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment if the encouraged crime is murder, or a lesser term for other offences.

The charge follows a police investigation into the group Take Back Power. The Met said the group has publicly claimed responsibility for a series of stunts involving criminal damage and shoplifting. These include incidents at the Ritz hotel and an attempt to target the Crown Jewels in December 2025, as well as thefts from high street supermarkets in London and Manchester.

What the charge means for residents

The Serious Crime Act 2007 makes it an offence to do an act capable of encouraging or assisting the commission of a crime, believing it will be committed. The Met did not specify which acts Clifton is alleged to have encouraged, but the charge sheet names theft and criminal damage.

Westminster Magistrates’ Court will hear the case on 2 September 2026. If convicted, Clifton could face a custodial sentence. The court will decide whether to grant bail or remand him in custody until trial. The Met has not confirmed whether further charges or arrests are expected in connection with the investigation.

Take Back Power’s claimed activities

Take Back Power has described itself as a protest group in online statements. The Met said the group has claimed responsibility for criminal damage at the Ritz in central London and an attempted action at the Tower of London, where the Crown Jewels are displayed. The group has also stated it carried out shoplifting from supermarkets in London and Manchester.

The Met’s investigation remains active. A spokesperson said the force is continuing to gather evidence and will not comment further while legal proceedings are ongoing. The Crown Prosecution Service authorised the charge against Clifton following a review of the evidence.

What happens next

Clifton’s first appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 2 September will be a plea hearing. If he pleads not guilty, the case will proceed to trial at a Crown Court. If he pleads guilty, the court will move to sentencing. The Met has not indicated whether other members of Take Back Power are under investigation.

Residents in Lambeth and Westminster may see increased police presence near court buildings on the day of the hearing. The Met said it will deploy officers to ensure public safety but did not specify numbers. No protests have been announced in connection with the case.