Masked gang jailed after terrifying knife burglary in Dorset
Three men locked up over violent break-in
Jack Dodds, 21, from Christchurch, Joshua Jackson, 18, homeless, and a 16-year-old boy from Bournemouth have been sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court for a brutal aggravated burglary last year.
Dodds was found guilty of aggravated burglary, criminal damage, and two counts of unlawful wounding following a trial in November 2020. He received a hefty 11-year prison term. Jackson pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary and common assault, while the 16-year-old admitted aggravated burglary and two counts of unlawful wounding. Jackson was jailed for seven-and-a-half years, and the minor received six-and-a-half years.
All three will face an extended licence period of three years upon release.
Home invasion went badly wrong for victims
On the night of Thursday 28 May 2020, just before 10pm, a female resident on Ford Lane opened her door after hearing the doorbell. The trio, masked and clad in black, stormed inside. Reports say one wielded an eight-inch kitchen knife.
During the raid, a male occupant was brutally assaulted and knocked unconscious. He suffered head and eye injuries that required hospital treatment. The woman was punched in the face and injured her arm but did not need hospital care.
Cash, a purse, and wallet were stolen before the gang sped off in a white BMW.
Police chase leads to swift arrests
Dorset police, assisted by the NPAS helicopter, quickly tracked the vehicle to a car park near Common Lane in Blandford. Dodds was found behind the wheel with two passengers. When told to step out, Dodds floored the accelerator in reverse, damaging a police car as he fled.
The helicopter spotted the BMW heading toward the Horton Inn pub. Officers forced a stop on the A31 near Boundary Lane roundabout at around 11.10pm, arresting all three suspects. A cash haul linked to the burglary was recovered from the vehicle.
Police vow tough action on violent crime
“This was an extremely frightening incident for the victims while their young children were present,” said Detective Constable Eleanor Jones of Bournemouth CID. “It’s fortunate the injuries were not more serious, but recovery is ongoing.”
“I commend the officers who quickly located the BMW and made arrests. Dorset Police will not tolerate any form of violence and will investigate thoroughly to bring offenders to justice.”
