Shivangi Sinha
Netflix’s ‘The Diamond Heist’ delves into the dramatic events surrounding the attempted robbery of the Millennium Dome’s diamond exhibition in Greenwich, South East London. It presented perspectives from both law enforcement and convicted criminals. At the heart of the operation was Raymond “Ray” Betson, who was revealed as the mastermind behind the plan. The documentary explores in detail his involvement in orchestrating the heist, the meticulous police work that led to his capture, and the consequences he ultimately faced for his actions.
Ray Betson Came Up With the Plan to Rob the Millennium Star Diamond
Raymond “Ray” Betson was the original mastermind behind the planned robbery at the Millennium Dome in 2000. He is believed to have first pitched the idea to Lee Wenham, which set the wheels in motion. With a lengthy criminal background, Ray was reportedly known among acquaintances for his charm and suave demeanor. As plans to steal the highly valuable Millennium Star Diamond, which was estimated at €350 million, progressed, Ray took center stage. During police surveillance, investigators observed that he appeared to run the operation like a boss, managing his subordinates and he was closely overseeing every aspect of the plot.
Ray was also the one who brought his brother-in-law, Michael Wearing, into the mix. At the time, the latter was working for the Metropolitan Police, which made his involvement all the more critical. Ray allegedly approached him to help coordinate the operation from the inside. However, in later statements, Wearing claimed that his cooperation wasn’t voluntary. He alleged Ray had threatened him, and he only went along with the plan because he feared for his life and safety. On the morning of November 7, 2000, when the heist was set to take place, Ray once again took the lead.
He was the one behind the wheel of the JCB digger that smashed through the perimeter of the Millennium Dome. He drove the vehicle straight into the exhibition area. However, the group had no idea the police were already lying in wait, having monitored them for weeks. Their attempt was swiftly foiled, and Ray was arrested on the spot for conspiracy to rob. He claimed their plan was only to steal, with no intent to harm, thanks to Wearing’s alleged cooperation. But his brother-in-law’s testimony that he had been threatened by Ray turned the case against him. He was ultimately sentenced to 18 years in prison.
Ray Betson Attempted Another Robbery After Being Released From Prison
Ray Betson later appealed his sentence, which was reduced from 18 to 15 years after he pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of conspiracy to steal. He was released on bail not long after. However, in March 2012, Ray, along with five accomplices, attempted to pull off another major robbery. This time, they targeted a Loomis UK Cash Depot in Swanley, Kent. But the plan quickly fell apart. The group breached the wrong side of the building and ended up stuck in an adjacent field, unable to access the depot. Investigators later found a balaclava (a close-fitting face mask worn to conceal identity) at the scene. DNA recovered from it was analyzed and matched to Ray. He was arrested and, in 2014, convicted of the crime.
This time, Ray was handed a standard determinate sentence of 13 years. That means he would be required to serve at least half of his sentence in custody before being released automatically on license for the remainder. Though the exact date of his release has not been made available, it is estimated that he became a free man around 2020.
Ray Betson is Giving Back to His Community Today
Ray Betson is believed to have been living in Clifton Crescent, Folkestone, since 2024, where he appears to have taken meaningful steps toward rebuilding his life. Since his release, he has distanced himself from his criminal past and seems to be using his experiences to make a positive impact, particularly among young people at risk. He has become actively involved in social causes, focusing on youth rehabilitation and crime prevention. One of his notable affiliations is with the AP Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting young offenders and helping them reintegrate into society.
In January 2023, Ray attended a charity boxing event organized by the AP Foundation, signaling his growing involvement with the organization. He has since been reported as a member of their Mature Lived Experience Team, a group of individuals who use their personal journeys to mentor, support, and guide young people away from crime. Through this role, Ray has participated in several youth conferences, where he likely shares the highs and lows of his life. Though his past was marked by high-profile criminal activity, Ray’s current work suggests a desire to give back, change narratives, and help others avoid the same mistakes he once made.
Read More: Michael Wearing: Where is the Former Police Officer Now?
