Balaclava Gang Jailed for Brutal Rampage Across Kent
Wearing balaclavas, AJ Katnoria, Samuel Phillips, and Ben Hoey went on a terrifying spree, targeting eight victims in less than two hours. Their reign of terror has now been smashed by the courts with a combined jail term of 15 years.
Rapid Attacks Across Snodland and Rochester
The violent spree unfolded on the night of 13 January 2024, between 8.50pm and 10.15pm. Victims aged 13 to 29 were approached by Phillips and Katnoria, while Hoey stayed in a nearby car ready to aid their swift getaways and hunt for more victims.
- In Snodland, four victims were targeted on Birling Road, Sharnal Lane, and Constitution Hill.
- The gang then moved to Rochester, hitting Smith Street, Dale Road, Central Parade, and The Tideway.
- They demanded cash, phones and other valuables.
- One man had a weapon held to his throat.
- A 14-year-old boy was struck with a metal bar during the assaults.
Swift Police Action Brings Them Down
By 11.10pm, quick police work arrested Katnoria and Hoey. Stolen wallets and keys were recovered from Katnoria. Phillips was caught shortly after.
All three were charged and remanded in custody. At Maidstone Crown Court, they pleaded guilty to five counts of robbery, three counts of attempted robbery, and assault. Katnoria and Phillips also admitted to possessing cannabis.
Heavy Sentences for Ruthless Attackers
On 25 June, Katnoria and Hoey each received five years and three months behind bars. Phillips was handed four years and seven months.
DS John-Paul Foley of North Kent CID said: “These men scoured the streets looking for vulnerable people, including children. They disguised themselves and terrorised their victims quickly before fleeing in their vehicle searching for their next target.”
“The youngest victim was just 13 years old, pushed to the floor and threatened with death. Each victim suffered physical or psychological harm. These significant prison sentences will hopefully bring some reassurance and make the community feel safer.”
