Trio Jailed For Tying Up and Robbing Stranger For Cash And Clothes

Hi and welcome to this JK NEWS B'HAM Crime Report for VPN: REGIONAL NETWORKS:

Two men and a teenager who ambushed and tied up a man during a pre-arranged sale in Coventry before blackmailing and burgling his home have been sentenced to a combined total of 15 years in prison.

The incident occurred on December 16, 2023, when the 19-year-old victim travelled from Essex to Coventry to sell designer items. Upon entering the agreed address, he was attacked by Dontae Anderson, 21, and a 16-year-old accomplice. The victim was tied up and had a bag placed over his head while the pair demanded thousands of pounds. His house keys were taken, and he was abandoned at the property. Fortunately, the victim managed to escape after several hours, emerging physically unharmed but deeply shaken.

While the victim freed himself, Anderson and his accomplice, joined by 22-year-old Alize Anderson, travelled to Essex and burgled his home. Police swiftly identified the suspects and intercepted their vehicle in Northamptonshire early the following morning, recovering the stolen items. All three were arrested and charged.

At Coventry Crown Court on November 26, 2024, Dontae Anderson, of Sewall Highway, Coventry, pleaded guilty to burglary, false imprisonment, and blackmail. He was sentenced to seven years and two months. His accomplice, the 16-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, received five years and eight months after changing his plea during the trial. Alize Anderson, of Dennis Road, Coventry, admitted burglary and was sentenced to two years and four months.

Detective Sergeant Matt Marston of the Major Crime Unit welcomed the results: "The victim was subjected to a terrifying ordeal which lasted for hours before he managed to break free. They planned this venture with the sole purpose of extracting a large sum of money, but instead they now face a significant amount of time in jail."

ACCESS TO THE LAW: Understanding the Crime and Sentencing

As part of our campaign to improve citizens’ access and understanding of UK Criminal law, we will be explaining the relevant UK legislation surrounding any case law relevant to our articles:

ACCESS TO THE LAW: Burglary, False Imprisonment, and Blackmail

As part of our ongoing campaign to improve citizens’ understanding of UK criminal law, this case highlights the offences of burglary, false imprisonment, and blackmail, along with the legal consequences attached to each.

Burglary is governed by the Theft Act 1968. A person commits burglary when they unlawfully enter a building with the intent to commit theft, inflict grievous bodily harm, or cause criminal damage. The maximum sentence for burglary of a dwelling is 14 years in prison.

False imprisonment, a common law offence, involves unlawfully restraining a person’s freedom of movement. This crime is treated seriously due to its impact on a victim’s liberty and can result in life imprisonment, depending on the severity of the case.

Blackmail is addressed under Section 21 of the Theft Act 1968, which defines it as making an unwarranted demand with menaces, intending to gain or cause loss. This offence carries a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison.

In sentencing, courts consider factors such as the premeditated nature of the crime, use of violence or threats, and the psychological impact on the victim. The significant sentences handed down in this case reflect the calculated planning, the use of intimidation, and the severe emotional distress inflicted on the victim.

This case underscores the courts’ commitment to imposing substantial penalties on those who commit serious offences involving threats, coercion, and violations of personal liberty.

Well, that’s all for now. But until our next article, please stay tuned, stay informed, but most of all stay safe, and I’ll see you then.

Jason King

Birmingham City-Desk

Twitter (X) @JasonKingNews

Jasonkingnews@gmail.com