Screwdriver-wielding man jailed for aggravated burglary

A man who threatened his victim with a screwdriver during a terrifying aggravated burglary has been sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Leroy Edward Hewitt, wearing a baseball cap and gloves, broke into a home in the Queens Road area of Richmond, North Yorkshire, at around 4.30am on Saturday 19 August 2023.

Armed with a screwdriver, the 46-year-old of Eggleston View in Darlington, confronted the victim in the living room, grabbed his arm, and demanded drugs and money, threatening to stab him if he didn’t comply.

Hewitt continued to threaten the victim while ransacking the property, searching for drugs and money he believed were inside.

Despite being held captive, the victim managed to break free and make a desperate attempt to escape. As he reached the front door, Hewitt tried to grab him again, but the victim fled barefoot and wearing just a pair of shorts to the safety of a nearby neighbour, who called the police.

Local officers quickly identified Hewitt based on the victim’s description. Forensic evidence also linked Hewitt to the crime after a cigarette butt he discarded in the toilet was recovered from the scene. Later that same day, Hewitt was arrested at his home, where officers seized a baseball cap and screwdriver.

At Teesside Crown Court on Thursday 17 October, Hewitt was sentenced to a ten-year extended sentence after being found guilty of aggravated burglary.

Detective Constable Nicola Keatley, our our Safeguarding Investigation Team said: “This was a prolonged and traumatic attack in the victim's own home. The terror inflicted by Hewitt made the victim fear for his life, and as soon as he saw an opportunity, he escaped to safety.

“Hewitt will now spend a significant amount of time in prison, reflecting the seriousness of his actions. I’d like to commend the victim for the incredible courage he has shown throughout this investigation. Despite the trauma he endured, he stood up in court to testify against his attacker.

“I hope this sentence brings some closure to the victim and reassures the community that we are committed to bringing burglars to justice. Our homes should be a place of safety, and we will continue to work tirelessly to protect that.”