Burglars busted after terrifying home raid in Lauren Van Der Post Way
Late-night break-in ends in quick police arrest
Just before midnight on Friday 21 July 2023, Jack Grindley, 21, Leon Melson, 20, and a 17-year-old youth forced their way into a property on Lauren Van Der Post Way. While the trio caused chaos inside, Ella Steadman, 22, waited outside.
Victim targeted with threats and property stolen
Furniture and belongings were smashed during the raid. The victim, who knew the attackers, was threatened and scared off. When he returned, he found jewellery, cash, and designer clothes had vanished.
Kent Police track down suspects and make arrests
Kent Police sprang into action after reports of the disturbance. They tracked the offenders’ car to Sittingbourne and stopped it there. All four suspects were arrested on the spot and later charged.
Sentences handed down at Canterbury Crown Court
- Jack Grindley of Bowens Field pleaded guilty to burglary and affray. He was jailed for 1 year and 10 months.
- Leon Melson from Tennyson Road received the same sentence after pleading guilty to the same charges.
- Ella Steadman, also from Bowens Field, pleaded guilty to burglary and affray but got a 16-month suspended sentence.
- The 17-year-old youth admitted affray and handling stolen goods and was given a community order.
PC Damien Dixon of East Kent CID said: “The offenders subjected their victim to a frightening ordeal before stealing from him in his home. A swift response from officers meant they were stopped in their tracks.”
“We’re grateful to witnesses who reported the crime in progress, helping us catch the culprits quickly and prevent further harm.”
