A shocking betrayal has landed Jenna Thompson, 40, behind bars for over three years after she blackmailed a longtime friend out of more than £23,000. Newcastle Crown Court heard how Thompson posed as a menacing man, bombarding the victim with terrifying threats – pushing her to the brink.
9 Months of Fear and Threats
The victim, who had generously helped Thompson with money after she fell ill and left work, began receiving chilling messages in November 2023. Posing as a violent man, Thompson warned that the woman’s home would be attacked unless she handed over cash to Thompson’s account. For nine months, the victim paid up, transferring sums between £50 and £1,000 multiple times a week. The threats intensified with grim images of crossbows, grenades, and even claims that a car would be crashed into her house if she refused.
Double Act of Deception
When the victim tried to block the first “man,” another number appeared, posing as an even more brutal associate demanding more cash. Shockingly, it was all Thompson—faking both identities to keep the money flowing. In total, the victim made 87 payments totalling £23,466 – leaving her with just 16p in her bank account. She had also given Thompson thousands more over the years to support her.
Victim’s Heartbreaking Statement
“My entire world collapsed,” the victim told the court. “Jenna weaponised our friendship and the intimate details of my life. I felt trapped, controlled, and driven by fear with every payment. I was living on nothing for months and too scared to tell anyone.”
At sentencing, Recorder Emma Smith condemned Thompson’s “wicked” abuse of kindness, calling it a gross betrayal. Thompson had used a burner phone to send the threatening calls and left her friend penniless. When caught, Thompson claimed the victim had “bragged” about being able to lose money – a callous excuse for cruel blackmail.
