Two Crooks Jailed for £15,000 Blackmail Plot in Newcastle
Sinister Scheme to Extort Thousands
Reece Roberts and Luke Haley plotted to squeeze £15,000 from an unsuspecting victim in a chilling blackmail case. The duo were caught and brought to justice after relentless police work from Northumbria detectives.
Threats and Arson Sparks Police Probe
The pair, friends who were out socialising in January, hatched their plan to shake down one of their associates. Newcastle Crown Court heard the victim and his mum reported a business linked to him was set on fire on January 30.
Following the fire, the victim was bombarded with threatening calls. Haley, later identified as the caller, demanded £15,000, warning he’d torch more buildings each night until he got his cash. He even threatened to tack on an extra £5,000 for every day the money was late.
Roberts Locked Up, Haley Gets Suspended Sentence
Rather than pay up, the victim contacted police who launched a speedy investigation. Detectives swiftly identified Roberts and Haley as the blackmail brains and arrested them. Further evidence confirmed their guilt.
- Reece Roberts, 21, was jailed for three and a half years and slapped with a 66-month driving ban linked to a dangerous driving hit-and-run last year.
- Luke Haley, 22, received a 15-month suspended sentence over two years, 150 hours of unpaid work and must pay £200 compensation.
Police Warn Public to Speak Out Against Blackmail
“This was a terrible ordeal for the victim and his family. No one should have to go through this,” said Detective Chief Inspector Jane Fairlamb. “I hope this sentence sends a clear message that such despicable actions will not be tolerated.”
If you have info on blackmail or are a victim yourself, call Northumbria Police on 101 for help.
