Three Burglars Jailed After Violent Gravesend Home Raid
Three ruthless burglars have been locked up for a total of 28 years after terrorising a Gravesend couple during a terrifying night-time home invasion. Baffour Amponsah, Alfie Taylor, and David Powell broke into a Rochester Road house, held the victims at knifepoint, and left them battered before stealing jewellery and cash.
Knife-Wielding Thugs Tie Up Couple in Early Morning Raid
In the early hours of 11 July 2019, the couple was woken by three masked men brandishing knives barging into their bedroom. The gang tied up the victims, punched one in the head, and forced them to lie face down while ransacking the property. The ordeal seemed set to escalate until one victim bravely fought back, pushing his attacker out and locking the door, then urgently dialling the police.
Cops Track Burglars to Associate’s Home & Uncover Cannabis Farm
Officers, aided by a sniffer dog, tracked the suspects to a property in Thong Lane. Inside, Elizabeth Woods tried to block police entry and even set her dog on them. A cannabis farm with around 40 plants was found, alongside stolen jewellery, cash, designer handbags, shoes, and approximately £5,000 in cash. Amponsah was found hiding in a bed and Taylor in a wardrobe. All were arrested on scene.
Judgment Day at Woolwich Crown Court
- Baffour Amponsah, 32, of Lewisham, admitted aggravated burglary and got nine years.
- Alfie Taylor, 25, of Rotherhithe, also pleaded guilty and received eight years.
- David Powell, 31, from Gravesend, denied the charge but was found guilty by jury; sentenced to 11 years.
- Elizabeth Woods, 27, charged with perverting justice and cannabis offences, jailed for 15 months.
Detective Praises Victim’s Bravery & Police Work
“This was a violent burglary and an extremely terrifying ordeal for the victims. Not only were they threatened with knives and tied up, they were assaulted without being able to defend themselves. However, the bravery of one victim in calling us while the offenders were still inside allowed us to act swiftly. Despite attempts to obstruct justice, we secured the evidence needed for convictions. Powell’s denial didn’t hold up against the thorough police investigation. I’m pleased justice has been served,”
Detective Constable Rebecca Ward
