Burnley Teen Jailed for Knifepoint Robberies and Shocking Sexual Assaults
An 18-year-old from Burnley has been locked up for six and a half years after pleading guilty to two knifepoint robberies and sexual assaults. Daniel Swarbrick, caught at 17, was sentenced at Preston Crown Court on Thursday, November 5, with an additional 18 months’ extended licence.
Victim Terrorised in Nighttime Attack
The first horrifying attack took place on December 13, 2019. The 47-year-old victim was walking alone on Healywood Road after separating from friends following a night out. She noticed Swarbrick following her on the opposite side of the street.
He ran towards her shouting demands for her phone and money. When she refused, Swarbrick grabbed her handbag and threatened to sexually assault her. He groped her and shoved his hand down her trousers before pulling her to the ground, dragging her as he fought to steal her bag.
Despite her resistance, he escaped with the handbag, leaving the victim terrified and traumatised.
Knife-Wielding Robbery at Nelson Convenience Store
The very next day, Swarbrick struck again at a convenience store on Every Street, Nelson. Around 2pm, he threatened a shop worker with a large knife, demanding cash from the till. He fled when disturbed, but police quickly linked the incident to him.
Police Praise Sentencing of Dangerous Offender
Swarbrick pleaded guilty to two robbery offences, two sexual assaults, and two counts of possessing an offensive weapon following a thorough investigation and public appeal.
“Daniel Swarbrick is a dangerous and predatory offender who showed a complete disregard for those he attacked,” said Detective Inspector Andy Horne of Lancashire Police.
“The first victim was followed and subjected to a sustained sexual assault which left her both terrified and traumatised. A day later he attempted to rob a shop in Nelson, threatening a worker with a large knife. His blatant disregard for the law and threat of harm leaves a custodial sentence as the only option and we welcome the court’s decision.”
