Two Jailed for Brutal Bevendean Bottle and Knife Robbery
Charlie Crookes, 23, from Norwich Drive, Bevendean, Brighton, and Anthony Kirsten, 45, of Hillside, Southwick, have been locked up for a vicious robbery in Brighton.
Shocking December Attack in Bevendean
On December 6 last year, Crookes and Kirsten targeted a man walking along The Avenue in Bevendean. The victim ran into a nearby shop for safety, but the thugs followed him inside. There, they brutalised him with a bottle and threatened him with a knife. The man was left shaken and injured in the terrifying assault.
Guilty Pleas and Heavy Sentences
Both men admitted to robbery and possession of a bladed article when they appeared at Lewes Crown Court on June 7.
- Crookes also confessed to making threats with a knife, stealing bicycles, and possessing cocaine. He was sentenced to seven years in prison, with a two-thirds minimum term before parole. An extra three-year extended sentence was added for his licence period.
- Kirsten pleaded guilty to robbery, possession of a bladed article, aggravated vehicle taking, and driving without valid insurance. He was sentenced to five years and four months behind bars and given a three-year nine-month driving ban.
Police Speak Out on Violent Attack
“Crookes and Kirsten carried out an appalling and unprovoked attack on the victim,” said Detective Constable Lewis Palfrey from Brighton CID.
“The incident in Bevendean has had a profound and lasting impact on the victim. Our investigation quickly identified the suspects, who were promptly arrested.
This case shows our commitment to securing justice for victims and taking dangerous offenders off our streets.”
