Masked Burglars Threaten to Shoot Maidstone Family in Violent Home Invasion
Three Thugs Jailed After Terrifying Break-In
Three masked burglars who stormed a family home in Maidstone, threatening to shoot the terrified occupants, have been locked up. Paul Crabtree, Mohamed Mahmoud, and Aramis Sullivan were sentenced this month at Maidstone Crown Court following a ruthless robbery near Cumberland Avenue on 2 September 2024.
Long Sentences for Brutal Burglary Crew
- Paul Crabtree, 43, Maidstone, the mastermind, got 6 years 11 months. He was convicted of conspiracy to burgle, drug offences, and carrying a bladed weapon.
- Aramis Sullivan, 21, Luton, pleaded guilty and received 4 years 6 months.
- Mohamed Mahmoud, 18, Bedford, also pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 2 years 2 months in a young offenders’ institute.
Nightmare Home Invasion Leaves Family Traumatized
At 2:02 AM, Kent Police got a 999 call reporting masked men smashing their way into the home. The family barricaded themselves upstairs as the crooks ransacked the place, stealing just £400. The intruders banged on the bedroom door, threatening to shoot the occupants. Police arrived within eight minutes and caught the suspects trying to flee by car. A hammer and three stolen mobile phones were seized. Investigators found detailed messages, screenshots, and parking instructions proving the burglary was meticulously planned by Crabtree and his gang. Crabtree was arrested at home a few days later.
Police Praise Tough Sentences
Detective Constable Joshua Littley commented:
“Crabtree, Mahmoud and Sullivan left a family fearing for their lives and caused serious damage — all for a measly £400.”
“We welcome the judge’s decision to hand down hefty sentences that reflect the violent and calculated nature of this crime.”
Case Summary
- Where: Near Cumberland Avenue, Maidstone
- When: 2 September 2024
- Sentencing: 18 June 2025
- Crime: Burglary, conspiracy, weapons and drug offences
- Impact: Family threatened with death, property badly damaged
Kent Police urge residents to report suspicious activity immediately by calling 999 in emergencies or 101 for non-urgent reports.
