Knife-Wielding Thug Locked Up After East Grinstead Violence Spree
A 21-year-old man has been slammed behind bars for terrorising East Grinstead with a series of vicious attacks. Bailey Crowhurst’s rampage included a brazen knifepoint robbery and a chaotic petrol station brawl – leaving locals shaken.
Knife Threat Sparks Horror at London Road Shop
On the morning of 27 July last year, Crowhurst casually entered a London Road shop, East Grinstead, pretending to browse for ginger beer. Minutes later, he stormed back brandishing a large knife. He threatened the terrified shop worker and demanded tobacco and alcohol worth up to £400. The victim was left traumatised by the terrifying ordeal.
Late-Night Petrol Station Rampage
Just over two months later, Crowhurst struck again. At 11:30pm on 30 September, he unleashed chaos at a petrol station on Station Road. Inside the store, he smashed fridge doors and hurled up to 15 wine bottles, causing havoc and damage.
Justice Served: 8 Years Behind Bars
Police tracked down Crowhurst days after the petrol station chaos. At Lewes Crown Court on 3 October, he pled guilty to robbery, affray, and carrying a knife. The judge handed him an eight-year sentence:
- Five years for robbery and related crimes
- Three extra years for dangerousness
Crowhurst must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence before parole and can be recalled for up to three more years after release.
“Crowhurst’s violent actions marked him as a serious threat to the public,” said Detective Constable Conor Burgess.
“We worked hard to catch him, and we’re pleased he’s now off the streets serving a hefty custodial sentence.”
He urged the public to report offences and to support shop workers, adding Sussex Police remain committed to tackling retail crime.
