Trio Jailed for 25 Years After Brutal Kidnapping and Assault of Teen in Middlesbrough
Three men who kidnapped and violently assaulted a 17-year-old boy in Middlesbrough have been jailed for a combined 25 years, following their sentencing at Teesside Crown Court on Monday, 23 June.
The teenager was ambushed, beaten with weapons, and abducted by a masked gang in a white van on Saturday, 1 June 2024, in a terrifying daylight attack. He was later thrown from the van with his hands tied, injured and shoeless, in full view of passing motorists on Ormesby Bank.
The Attack and Abduction
The court heard how the victim had been riding his bike on the Greenway when he was pursued by a white van and forced to drop the bike as he attempted to flee. A man in camouflage clothing and a balaclava exited the van armed with a weapon and struck the boy repeatedly, causing him to fall.
Two more men joined the assault, kicking and hitting the boy in the head and body, before dragging him into the van. His bicycle was also loaded in, while a knife and a shoe were left behind at the scene.
Shortly afterwards, witnesses saw the teenager being thrown out of the van on Ormesby Bank, with his hands tied and facial injuries visible. Public concern escalated as horns were sounded by motorists witnessing the harrowing scene.
The suspects fled on foot, abandoning the van, while the boy managed to escape and run for help.
The Sentences
The following men have now been sentenced:
- Jack Carlsson, 22, of Roworth Road, Middlesbrough
- Convicted after a trial of kidnapping, wounding with intent, and possession of a sword
- Sentenced to 10 years imprisonment
- Shaun Thompson, 30, of no fixed address
- Pleaded guilty to kidnapping, wounding with intent, possession of a sword, and possession of a machete
- Sentenced to 7 years and 6 months
- Lewis Thompson, 26, of Premier Road, Middlesbrough
- Pleaded guilty to kidnapping, wounding with intent, possession of a sword, and possession of a machete
- Sentenced to 7 years and 6 months
Two other defendants, Jamie Lawrence (21) and Michael Townsend (36), who both pleaded guilty to kidnapping, wounding, and possession of offensive weapons, will be sentenced on Thursday, 26 June.
Police Praise Public and Investigation Team
Cleveland Police credited public witnesses and swift investigative efforts with securing convictions in the disturbing case, which drew widespread local concern.
A police spokesperson said:
“This was a premeditated and vicious attack that left a young man traumatised. Thanks to the bravery of the victim and quick action from the community and officers, these men are now behind bars.”
