Violent Burglar Slashes Sofas and Threatens Victim in Sevenoaks
Thomas Arnold went on a rampage in Sevenoaks on 11 December 2021, smashing windows at a woman’s house — a place he knew well. When police arrived, Arnold was already gone. But he dialled the victim, making chilling threats to harm her while officers were still on site.
Stalking and Break-In Escalate Horror
The nightmare didn’t stop there. The very next day, Arnold bombarded the woman with creepy phone messages, clearly stalking her. That same day, he returned to her home while she was out and caused even more damage. He climbed through a broken window and unleashed havoc inside, slashing sofas and chairs multiple times.
Cash Stolen as Police Close In
Arnold didn’t just destroy property — he also stole a sum of cash before fleeing on foot. But kent-police/" title="Kent Police" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="6029">Kent Police were hot on his trail. Officers quickly arrested the 31-year-old Quarry Road, maidstone/" title="Maidstone" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Maidstone resident near the scene.
Justice Served: Prison and Restraining Order
Arnold faced charges of burglary, criminal damage, and harassment causing fear. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced on 9 February 2022 to two years and four months behind bars. Plus, he’s slapped with a five-year restraining order to keep him away from the victim.
PC James Grace from the Vulnerability Investigation Team said: “Arnold is a violent individual who put his victim through a terrifying ordeal. His actions were those of a bully and a coward, and west Kent will be safer while he is serving his prison sentence. I would like to commend the victim for her courage and the witnesses who helped bring this criminal to justice.”
