Two men have been sentenced to prison after a terrifying attempted robbery and assault at a Hereford home in August 2022. Richard David Grimshaw, 53, from Weymouth, was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison. His accomplice, 33-year-old Shane Peter Smith from Portland, received a seven-year sentence at Bournemouth Crown Court on 20 March 2023.
The chilling incident occurred at approximately 5.15pm on Sunday, 14 August 2022. Smith forced his way into a property on Hereford Road, demanding the occupant’s wallet. When the victim refused, Smith launched an assault. Grimshaw then entered the property wearing a Halloween Scream mask and also attacked the victim.
A brave neighbour intervened to defend the homeowner. During the struggle, the neighbour was punched in the face, but the attackers fled the scene shortly afterwards.
The victim immediately reported the incident to Dorset Police. Officers circulated descriptions of the suspects and quickly located and arrested Grimshaw and Smith nearby.
At sentencing, the judge praised the courageous neighbour for stepping in during the violent attack.
Detective Constable Kate Rhodes of Dorset County CID commented on the case, saying, “This was an extremely frightening incident for the two victims. I want to thank the victims for their support throughout what has been a very difficult investigation. The officers responded brilliantly under pressure, ensuring everyone’s safety and bringing these criminals to justice.”
She added, “The robust sentences passed today send a clear message – crime will not be tolerated.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
