Fake Cops Jailed for Violent Burglary on Mother and Kids in Putney
Three men got slammed behind bars after posing as police officers and violently breaking into a mum’s home in Putney. They went on a brutal rampage, attacking the woman, tying her up, and stealing cash, kids’ presents, and even a two-month-old American Bulldog puppy.
Gruesome Attack Caught Up Three Villains at Kingston Crown Court
Michael Cloherty, 58, from Orpington, bagged 13 years, Simon Ludlow, 50, from Mitcham, got 12 years, and Michael Cook, 54, from London, received 10 years. After a seven-day trial, all three were found guilty of aggravated burglary at Kingston Crown Court on Wednesday, 9 November.
How the Horror Unfolded
- On the morning of Monday, 29 November 2021, the victim, a woman in her 30s, was leaving her flat on Arabella Drive with her three young kids.
- She was approached by two men wearing police caps and carrying friction-lock batons. One even flashed a fake ID badge, claiming they were there for a drug search.
- When the mum challenged them, they grabbed her by the throat, forced her inside, punched and stamped on her, then tied her hands with cable ties.
- They ransacked the flat and stole cash, gifts for the children, and the beloved two-month-old ‘blue Merle’ American Bulldog puppy.
Police Investigation Unmasks Trio’s Crime Spree
Police launched a thorough probe, checking CCTV and tracking vehicles. They uncovered three men, not two, leaving Ludlow’s address an hour before the raid. Call data linked them meeting days earlier in Putney, possibly scoping out the flat for entry points and cameras.
After arresting the trio, officers found crucial evidence at their homes. Detective Inspector Andy Durham slammed the criminals:
“These three individuals pretended to be police officers to gain entry, used extreme violence to rob a mother in her home, caused injuries, and stole her children’s presents and their very young puppy.”
Detective Inspector Dan Whitten added:
“This offence involved extensive planning, violence, and a blatant disregard for the vulnerable present. Thankfully, they no longer pose a risk to the public. The victim showed incredible strength, and the investigation was relentless in bringing them to justice.”
Stolen Puppy Still Missing – Police Appeal for Help
Despite efforts, the stolen American Bulldog puppy remains missing. Police urge anyone who recognises the dog or has been offered a puppy like this for sale to come forward.
Call 101 quoting 1837/29NOV21 with any info.
