Fake Kidnap Scam Rakes In £10k Before Crook Is Caught
Christopher Sellman pulled off a shocking scam, spinning an elaborate web of lies to fleece two acquaintances out of nearly £10,000. Claiming he was kidnapped and held for ransom, Sellman sent terrifying messages and photos that had his victims fearing for his life — and their own.
Shocking Photos Spark Panic
It all began on 15 January 2021, when Sellman’s victims received messages from an unknown number. Alongside a photo of Sellman holding a razor blade to his throat, the kidnappers demanded cash to secure his release. The victims, desperate to help, transferred money into a bank account controlled by Sellman himself.
As days passed, the demands escalated. More chilling photos followed: Sellman with a gun in his mouth on 24 February, a crossbow at his face, and even videos showing his head being forced underwater. Each threat came with new payments — the victims handed over £1,000 that day alone.
When the victims declared they had no more funds, the “kidnappers” threatened violence and claimed to know where they lived. Terrified, the victims contacted police.
Detectives Spot Amateur Errors
Police spotted the scam thanks to a glaring slip-up — both Sellman and his supposed captors made the exact same spelling and grammar mistakes in their texts. The identical errors blew Sellman’s cover wide open.
Officers raided his former ashford/" title="Ashford" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Ashford home on 24 March and found weapons matching those in the photos, plus phones loaded with the threatening messages. Sellman and his ex, Stephanie Gibb, were busted for blackmail the very next day.
Scammer Gets Justice, Victims Left Shaken
Sellman, now of no fixed address, pleaded guilty and was sentenced at Canterbury Crown Court on 2 September. Gibb, 28, from Westwell Lane, Ashford, admitted her role and received an 18-month suspended sentence.
Investigating officer PC Edward Pegg slammed Sellman’s shameless con. “Sellman showed an appalling abuse of trust for those who care about him, faking his own kidnap and torture for money to spend on sports clothing and takeaways.”
“The victims were terrified of the consequences if they didn’t pay, their only concern being to protect Sellman.”
“My thoughts are with the victims, and I hope they are able to recover from this horrific ordeal.”
