Pair Jailed for Deadly Watch Snatch on Elderly Man
Two hardened criminals are locked up for 15 years each after an 83-year-old man died following a botched robbery in Birmingham.
Watch Snatch Gone Horribly Wrong
Neil O’Donnell, 83, was visiting his partner at a rehab centre in Hall Green when Tony Griffin, 54, attacked him with a screwdriver, trying to snatch his watch. Neil fought back and staff chased Griffin off, but the struggle left Neil injured. A week later, he died from an infection linked to the wound sustained during the robbery on 14 May.
Police Crack the Case with CCTV and Facial Recognition
Investigators revealed Griffin’s accomplice was Wesley McDonnell, 46. CCTV showed McDonnell eyeing Neil’s watch in a nearby Co-op just 30 minutes before the attack. Both men followed Neil from the car park to the rehab centre. Griffin was caught on camera dumping his top and cap in a bin while fleeing. Facial recognition led police straight to McDonnell, which then resulted in Griffin’s arrest.
Criminal Histories Weigh Heavy in Sentencing
- Griffin has 14 previous convictions covering 32 offences including burglary, robbery, and kidnapping.
- McDonnell racked up 29 convictions for 85 crimes such as burglary, wounding with intent, and robbery.
At Warwick Crown Court, both men were found guilty of manslaughter. Griffin pleaded guilty to attempted robbery; McDonnell was convicted of the same. On 13 January, each received 15-year sentences and must serve at least two-thirds before parole.
