Brutal Armed Robber Jailed for Over 10 Years After Snooker Cue Attack
Terrifying Home Invasion in Medway
Joseph Crabbe launched a savage attack on a man during a violent break-in at a house in Cliffe, Medway. Armed with a snooker cue and a screwdriver, Crabbe and an accomplice struck at around 10:45pm on 19 July 2021. When the victim confronted them, they repeatedly beat him with the cue, then demanded valuables.
Bound, Threatened, and Stabbed During Ordeal
The crooks pinned the victim to a sofa, stabbed him in the head with a screwdriver, and held a knife to his neck. When one thug threatened the man’s dog, he handed over his watch, wallet, and bank card PINs. Still, the attackers continued their assault, binding his arms and legs with flex before fleeing.
Good Samaritan’s Quick Thinking Leads to Arrest
A passing motorist spotted the suspects running through the village and tailed them to a car park. The men jumped into a Vauxhall Insignia, switched off the headlights, and sped off. The witness then found the injured victim and alerted police. The victim was taken to hospital with serious cuts and bruises.
DNA Evidence and ANPR Cameras Nail Crabbe
Kent Police used ANPR to track the Vauxhall Insignia—owned by one of Crabbe’s relatives—traveling to and from the crime scene. Crabbe’s DNA was recovered from a hammer left behind at the home. He was arrested on 2 February 2022.
At Maidstone Crown Court, Crabbe, 37, from Longhill Avenue, Chatham, pleaded guilty to robbery and breaching licence conditions. On 11 August 2023, he was handed an extended sentence of 10 years and six months, with a minimum two-thirds to serve. He will also face three years on licence after release.
DC Emma Laimbeer said: “This was an extremely violent attack on a victim inside their own home. The cowardly actions of Crabbe and his accomplice were no doubt terrifying, as they thought only of stealing any valuables they could find. I would like to commend the victim who has shown considerable courage assisting us to bring Crabbe to justice. I would also like to thank the member of the public whose quick thinking assisted us to identify the vehicle used by the criminals. He then assisted the injured victim, and ensured the emergency services were alerted.”
