Knife-wielding teen thug locked up for over seven years after robbing boys in Gillingham
Teen preyed on school kids in broad daylight
18-year-old Cameron Joseph terrorised teenagers near schools in Gillingham, wielding a knife to rob them of pricey gear. The Balmoral Road resident was sentenced to seven years and three months at maidstone/" title="Maidstone" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Maidstone Crown Court on Friday, 23 May. Joseph pleaded guilty to two robberies and two counts of carrying a blade in public.
The first attack unfolded on 10 February 2025. Riding a bus through Gillingham town centre, Joseph spotted two teens. He got off and approached them on Brompton Road, posing friendly questions and even offering to buy a Canada Goose jacket. But when the boys tried to walk away, they spotted a knife tucked in his waistband. Joseph dragged one into an alley, turned violent, and snatched the jacket, AirPods, and other valuables.
Knife threats spark quick robbery spree
Just six days later, Joseph struck again. He followed another teenage boy in the Brompton area and demanded his bag. When the lad refused, Joseph flashed a knife from his jacket pocket and threatened to stab him. The scared victim handed over his belongings immediately.
Rose tattoo gave thug away
Police quickly linked Joseph to the crimes thanks to a victim’s description of a distinctive rose tattoo on his hand. Officers caught up with him after a foot chase in Gravesend on 20 February. At arrest, Joseph was wearing the stolen Canada Goose jacket and carrying the stolen bag.
Judge slams teen, warns Medway safer without him
Detective Sergeant Richard Taylor said: “This criminal chose to rob teenagers and threaten them with a knife. Thanks to detailed descriptions, officers were able to bring him to justice. Medway is certainly a safer place in his absence.”
Joseph must serve four years and three months behind bars, followed by three years on licence if released early. The severe sentence sends a strong message to anyone targeting vulnerable youngsters with violent intimidation.
