Two men have been convicted of manslaughter after an 83-year-old pensioner died following a botched robbery attempt. Tony Griffin, 54, and Wesley McDonnell, 46, both from Birmingham, were found guilty at Warwick Crown Court on 21 November. They face sentencing in January.
Attack on Pensioner Outside Rehab Centre
Neil O’Donnell was visiting his partner at a rehabilitation centre on Shaftmoor Lane, Hall Green, on 14 May when Griffin, a convicted career criminal, approached his car armed with what police believe was a screwdriver. Griffin tried to snatch Mr O’Donnell’s watch, but the pensioner fought back until staff chased Griffin away.
Mr O’Donnell was hospitalised for an arm injury but discharged soon after. Tragically, he died a week later from complications caused by an infection linked to the attack.
CCTV Evidence and Criminal Histories Exposed
West Midlands Police investigations showed McDonnell was caught on CCTV at a nearby Co-op watching Mr O’Donnell’s watch. He met up with Griffin, and footage captured them following the pensioner’s car to the rehab centre.
Griffin was seen discarding his top and cap in a wheelie bin as he fled. Facial recognition helped police identify McDonnell, while further enquiries linked Griffin to the assault.
Criminal Past Comes Back to Haunt Them
Griffin admitted attempted robbery; McDonnell was found guilty of the charge at trial. Griffin boasts 14 prior convictions for 32 offences including burglary, robbery, and kidnapping. McDonnell carries 29 convictions for 85 offences such as burglary, wounding with intent, and robbery.
The pair’s reckless attack has ended a pensioner’s life and landed them both behind bars soon enough.
