Man jailed for making threats with angle grinder in Brighton

It happened while he was trying to steal a bike

George Jhugroo
Author: Jo SymesPublished 31st May 2024

A man has been jailed after stealing a bike and making threats with an angle grinder in Brighton.

George Jhugroo, 24, of Brookfields Avenue in Mitcham was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court on Thursday, May 23 following a guilty plea last month.

On May 28, 2023, the victim left his bike locked up in Kings Road, near Cavendish Place while he was on the lower seafront promenade.

A short while later, the victim looked up to Kings Road to see sparks and a man, now known to be Jhugroo, using an angle grinder to remove the lock from his bike.

Members of the public gathered around Jhugroo, requesting he stop, and in response he threatened to assault them with the angle grinder.

After removing the lock, Jhugroo rode off on the bike towards Norfolk Square.

Following the robbery, Jhugroo sustained an injury during an altercation, and the bike was later recovered.

The same day, Jhugroo attended the Royal Sussex County hospital for treatment, where he was intercepted by police and arrested in relation to the matter.

He was then bailed with strict conditions pending further enquiries.

Jhugroo was charged on February 5 with robbery and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.

On April 4, Jhugroo pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced on May 23 to 33 months imprisonment.

Detective Constable James Botting said: “The swift action of witnesses reporting crucial detail ensured that police were able to quickly apprehend Jhugroo.

“We hope this sentence serves as a deterrent to others considering similar criminal activities.

“We are grateful to those who confronted Jhugroo, but we want to remind the public that their safety is paramount.

“If you witness a crime in progress, please act with caution and call 999 at the earliest opportunity.

“Your safety is more important than anything else."

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