Knife-Wielding Criminal Busted After String of Robberies in Gillingham
Neil Dunkley, 49, no fixed address, has been jailed for two years after a spree of violent crimes in Gillingham, Kent. The dangerous thug repeatedly carried a knife while committing thefts and intimidation, terrorising locals.
Debt Demand Turns Into Theft at Multi-Occupancy Property
On 5 October 2022, Dunkley stormed a flat on Albany Road where he accused one of the occupants of owing him cash. When the debtor wasn’t home, Dunkley confronted a visitor along with three other men beside a damaged door. Demanding payment, Dunkley forced the victim to hand over £120 before they left. Police tracked him down and arrested him in February 2023. He later pleaded guilty to theft in court.
Phone Snatch Turns Violent with Knife Threat
On 14 January 2024, Dunkley struck again on Gillingham High Street by stealing a man’s phone. When the victim chased him down and demanded his property back, he was punched. Dunkley fell but then pulled out a craft knife, threatening the victim. Police were alerted, arresting Dunkley on scene, seizing blades from his bag, and recovering the stolen phone.
Held After Knife Incident in Ambulance
Just weeks later on 3 February, paramedics treating Dunkley in an ambulance faced a terrifying moment when he became aggressive and pulled a knife. Officers rushed to help and detained him. Dunkley was charged with possession of a knife in a public place and later pleaded guilty.
Court Sends Violent Offender to Prison
On 1 February, maidstone/" title="Maidstone" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Maidstone Crown Court sentenced Dunkley to two years behind bars. Two counts of robbery were ordered to lie on file. Detective Constable Emily Speyer slammed Dunkley as “a particularly violent man who regularly has a knife when committing offences.”
“The streets of Medway will certainly be a safer place in his absence,” DC Speyer added.
