Two Men Busted After Brazen Robberies in Maidstone and Sittingbourne
Women Threatened, Valuables Stolen in Shocking Attacks
Two men have been charged following terrifying robberies against women in Maidstone and Sittingbourne on Thursday, 3 October 2024.
In Maidstone, a woman was targeted at home near Hart Street. She opened her door to find two men who forced their way inside, threatened her, then stole her mobile phone, cash, and jewellery.
Later the same day, another woman was attacked while staying at a hotel in Sittingbourne. Two men broke into her room, threatened her, and made off with cash, bank cards, and mobile phones. One of the stolen bank cards was reportedly used in a fraud attempt.
Swift Police Action Leads to Arrests
A fast-moving investigation landed one suspect on Friday, 4 October, after a brief vehicle chase. The second suspect was arrested on Tuesday, 8 October.
Darren Porter, 45, from Gravesend, and 24-year-old Aaron Charlery of Gatland Lane, Maidstone, have both been charged with two counts of robbery. Porter also faces dangerous driving charges. Charlery has been hit with a fraudulent use of a bank card charge.
Court Appearances and Ongoing Probe
Porter appeared at Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court and has been remanded in custody. He is due back at Maidstone Crown Court on Monday, 4 November.
Charlery is set to appear at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 10 October.
The investigation is still ongoing as police hunt for any links or further suspects.
