Grimsby duo jailed for robbing and attacking vulnerable people
Anthony Smith and Denise Yould targeted victims in their homes
Two people have been sentenced after robbing and attacking vulnerable individuals in Grimsby earlier this year.
Anthony Smith, 42, of Rutland Street, Grimsby, and Denise Yould, 41, of no fixed address, were described as a ‘Bonnie and Clyde-esque’ pair during their sentencing at Grimsby Crown Court on 17th November 2025.
Smith pleaded guilty to three counts of robbery, fraud by false representation, theft, and possession of a knife and received a 17-year prison sentence.
Yould admitted two counts of robbery and fraud and was sentenced to six years and four months behind bars.
Investigations into their crimes showed Smith and Yould befriended their victims for weeks before targeting them in their homes.
One of their attacks occurred on 21st February 2025 after Smith stole a man’s bank card at a pub on Albion Street. CCTV later showed the card being used at a petrol station.
On 26th February, Smith forced entry into another victim’s home on Victor Street, threatening the occupant with a knife and stealing their bank card and coat.
More recently, on 2nd March 2025, two men were attacked at their property on Rutland Street after letting Smith and Yould into their home under the belief they could be trusted. Instead, the pair assaulted the victims—at one point using a hammer—and stole wallets, phones and keys.
The crimes were captured on CCTV, which helped officers identify both suspects. Smith and Yould were arrested the following day in the same area.
Detective Constable Jak Shepherd of Grimsby’s Criminal Investigation Department said the offending was "reminiscent of the infamous Bonnie and Clyde," citing their calculated methods of befriending and targeting vulnerable people.
“Nobody should be made to feel unsafe in their own home, and thankfully, no one was seriously injured as a result of their crime sprees,” Shepherd said.
He added, “This type of offending will not be tolerated, and I am pleased that both are now being held accountable for their crimes.”
If you have concerns or information about crimes in your area, speak to officers or call 101. In emergencies, dial 999. Anonymous reports can be made via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.