A 70-year-old man has been locked up for nearly three years after a terrifying six-month rampage in Nottingham. Oliver Herbert’s shocking offences included threatening to cut off his support worker’s testicles with a multi-tool, intimidating a tram inspector, and burgling his own neighbour’s flat.
Nottingham Terrorised for Six Months
Between March and October 2024, Herbert unleashed a string of crimes that had the city on edge. At Nottingham Crown Court, Judge Julie Warburton blasted his “appalling catalogue of offending” carried out within days of one another.
“You stole a bag from a woman living in the same complex as you. Then you lunged at a ticket inspector who was just doing his job.”
Knife Threats, Theft and Intimidation
- Herbert burgled a grieving neighbour’s flat, snatching her bag during her move.
- He grabbed a tram ticket inspector’s lanyard in a violent outburst after being challenged over a fare.
- Stole shoes from Marks & Spencer and menaced security staff with a knife.
- Hit a British Heart Foundation charity shop in a final act of theft on 1 October.
- Most shockingly, after a spat at the Priory in West Bridgford, he threatened his support worker with a multi-tool, snarling: “You don’t know who I am.”
From Stability to Chaos
Herbert, of Forster Street, pleaded guilty to burglary, threatening behaviour, possession of offensive weapons, and drug offences. Prosecutor Devni Kitulagoda revealed a disturbing pattern of violence and theft.
Defence lawyer Digby Johnson said Herbert had 24 court appearances for 47 offences but showed a decline in trouble from 2014 to 2023. “Controlled drugs became an issue last year and led to aggression,” Johnson explained.
Despite living in decent accommodation for five years, Herbert became homeless, started carrying a knife “for his own protection,” and spiralled out of control.
“Sitting in custody, he realises his life has careered off the rails.”
Judge Sends Herbert Down for 2½ Years
Judge Warburton sentenced Herbert to two-and-a-half years in jail for his shocking spree. Nottingham residents can now breathe easier with this dangerous criminal behind bars.
