Armed Machete Raider Jailed After Brutal Home Invasion
A violent thug is behind bars after smashing his way into a stranger’s home armed with a machete and a pick axe handle. Marc Ridley, 29, terrorised a 58-year-old woman in Hetton-le-Hole in the early hours of May 18, leaving her shaken and fearful.
Refused £20, Ridley Goes Berserk
Ridley first knocked on the woman’s door just after midnight asking for £20. When she refused, Ridley stormed off but then returned wielding weapons. He shattered her living room window, raining glass everywhere, and forced his way inside, banging his deadly tools on the furniture. The terrified victim was already on the phone to police when Ridley fled empty-handed.
Victim Left Traumatized, Raider Caught
Ridley also smashed a window at a nearby home, targeting the wrong address after believing a former bully lived there. He was nabbed shortly after by police in the street. In a chilling police interview, Ridley admitted, “If I’d had the chance I would’ve robbed her,” showing no remorse.
Sentenced to Over Six Years Behind Bars
On August 21, Ridley pleaded guilty at Newcastle Crown Court to aggravated burglary, criminal damage, and weapons charges. He was swiftly sentenced to six years and eight months in prison.
Detective Sergeant David Reeves slammed Ridley’s “absolutely appalling” actions, praising the victims for their bravery. “There is absolutely no place for behaviour like this in society,” he said.
The victim also spoke out, revealing she “feels vulnerable every day” and now wants to move away, haunted by “flashbacks” of the attack.
Ridley now faces a long stint behind bars for this terrifying rampage.
