Drunken Attempt to Snatch Toddler Ends in Two-Year Jail Term
Man Caught Red-Handed in Amesbury
A 28-year-old man has been jailed for two years after trying to kidnap a two-year-old boy in Amesbury. Reece Jolliffe of Coltsfoot Close admitted the terrifying charge at Salisbury Crown Court on October 18, 2024.
Early Morning Horror
The chilling incident unfolded shortly before dawn on September 2, 2023. Jolliffe, reportedly drunk, slipped into the toddler’s home through an unlocked door around 4 am. The child’s mother woke to see him holding her son at the foot of her bed. Startled, Jolliffe dropped the boy and fled.
Fast Police Action and Tough Penalties
- Wiltshire Police arrested Jolliffe at his home soon after.
- He claimed memory loss about his actions after drinking at a pub.
- Besides his two-year prison term, Jolliffe faces a 10-year restraining order banning contact with the family.
- He must also pay a £187 surcharge to victim support services.
Sergeant Matthew Goldring said, “This was a deeply disturbing incident for the entire family. We do not know Jolliffe’s full intentions, but his actions were significantly alarming. I thank the mother for her bravery in reporting this and trusting us to deliver justice.”
Police Warn Residents to Lock Up Tight
Wiltshire Police have urged everyone to stay vigilant and secure their homes, especially at night, to prevent similar frightening break-ins.
