Two Men Convicted After Pensioner Dies in Failed Robbery
Two Birmingham men have been found guilty of manslaughter over the death of an 83-year-old pensioner. Tony Griffin, 54, and Wesley McDonnell, 46, were convicted at Warwick Crown Court on 21 November. Both face sentencing in January.
Attack on Pensioner Outside Rehab Centre
Neil O’Donnell was visiting his partner at a rehab centre in Hall Green on 14 May when Griffin, a career criminal, tried to rob him. Armed with what police suspect was a screwdriver, Griffin lunged at O’Donnell’s car to snatch his watch. The pensioner fought back fiercely until staff intervened and scared Griffin off. O’Donnell was rushed to hospital with an arm injury but released soon after. Tragedy struck a week later when he died from infection complications linked to the assault.
CCTV Evidence Nails the Pair
West Midlands Police pieced together the robbery plot through CCTV footage. McDonnell was caught loitering outside a nearby Co-op, eyeing up O’Donnell’s watch before meeting Griffin. The pair then followed the pensioner’s car to the rehab centre. Griffin was spotted ditching his top and cap in a bin as he fled. Facial recognition tech helped cops pin McDonnell, while further investigation tracked Griffin to the attack.
Criminal Records Spell Doom for Griff and Wes
Griffin admitted attempted robbery, while McDonnell was found guilty at trial. Both men have lengthy rap sheets: Griffin has 14 convictions across 32 offences including burglary, robbery, and kidnapping. McDonnell boasts 29 convictions for 85 offences like burglary, wounding with intent, and robbery. Their desperate robbery bid cost an elderly man his life and now lands them both behind bars. Justice is on the way.
