Five men have been jailed for using dating apps to lure and rob victims in Birmingham and Derby
Birmingham: A group of five men has been sentenced for a string of robberies. They used dating apps like Grindr to lure victims into traps. Over ten months, they stole more than £100,000.
The gang operated mainly in Golden Hillock Park and Derby city center. They targeted people they thought were vulnerable. Once they had their victims, they would hold them for hours.
They transferred money from the victims’ accounts and stole personal items like wallets and keys. Some victims were even threatened with weapons. It was a terrifying experience for those involved.
Injuries were common, with some victims suffering serious harm. The police reported broken bones and other injuries that required hospital treatment.
In one case, the gang pretended their car had broken down to trick good Samaritans. When people stopped to help, they were assaulted and robbed.
The men often hid their faces to avoid being recognized. They would hold victims down, making it hard for them to see who was attacking them.
Footage showed them withdrawing cash from ATMs and spending stolen money in shops. They even celebrated after their crimes, showing no remorse.
Sentences ranged from 12 to over 17 years. Some of the men pleaded guilty early on, while others were found guilty after a lengthy trial.
Detective Inspector Tom Lyons praised the bravery of the victims. He emphasized the importance of their testimonies in bringing the gang to justice.
He reassured the public that such crimes are taken very seriously and that the police will do everything possible to protect the community.
