Callous robber who tied up 76-year-old woman has been jailed
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A callous robber who tied up a 76-year-old woman as he ransacked her Norton home has been jailed for 10 years with three years on extended licence.
David Hornby, 40, of no fixed abode, broke into an address on Japonica Way, Norton, in the early hours of Sunday 2nd July as the occupant slept.
The victim woke up after hearing noises and went to investigate but she was confronted by Hornby who assaulted her, bound her arms and legs, made numerous threats of violence and stole several items along with her bank card.
The victim was left tied up for more than two hours. As a result of the incident, the victim suffered facial injuries and was left extremely shaken by the terrifying ordeal.
Speaking about the incident in a victim impact statement, the victim said: “At the time of the incident, I felt violated. I was kept a prisoner in my own home. Tying me up and making me fear for my own life. That night I thought I was going to die.
“I cannot be prouder of the community I am surrounded by. The amount of support they have provided me, I cannot thank them enough. They have all, without them realising, helped me get through this dark time.
“I will get there day by day surrounded by plenty of support. It does not diminish the affects it has had but I know I still have a life to live. I am going to try my hardest to live it the best I can.”
Detectives from Stockton and Middlesbrough CID, along with Crime Scene Officers, investigated the crime and Hornby was identified, arrested and charged the following day and remanded to appear at court.
Hornby appeared at Teesside Crown Court on 1st August where he pleaded guilty to robbery, false imprisonment and two counts of fraud by false representation. He appeared at the same court on Friday 27th October for sentencing.
The Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Chatterton said: “This was one of the worst cases I have dealt with in my career. The victim was subjected to torture, fear and put under an immense amount of pressure for hours whilst this perpetrator helped himself to her belongings and savings.
“He left and returned several times all whilst the victim lay helplessly tied up. He removed her phone from her reach and she genuinely believed that she was going to die. No person should ever be made to feel this way, especially in their own home.
“Hornby showed absolutely no consideration for his victim and the huge impact this horrific incident would have on her. I’m pleased this dangerous offender is now off our streets and in prison where he can no longer harm people in society. I hope he reflects on his actions and realises what impact he has had on the victim and the public.
“I hope this sentencing sends out a clear message that we will not tolerate such behaviour and we will work tirelessly to bring offenders to justice.
“I’d like to thank the victim for her resilience, tenacity, and bravery, as well as the local community who banded together to offer their help and support. The kindness shown makes me extremely proud of our local community.
“Standing up for victims of crime, seeing perpetrators punished and keeping the public safe is the reason why people join the police and I am proud of my team who worked tirelessly for justice to prevail.”