A court in Manchester has sentenced seven gang members for kidnapping and forcing a man to hand over more than $124,000 in cryptocurrency.
According to a report from the Greater Manchester Police on January 30, the group repeatedly targeted the victim over nearly a year.
The first incident happened in January 2023 when a man confronted the victim at home and demanded cryptocurrency. The victim unwillingly sent money to Scott Armstrong, one of the gang members.
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In October 2023, the victim was beaten and locked in a cupboard after being lured to an apartment by Gary Edwards. Meanwhile, Kane Godiff threatened him if he could not transfer money immediately.
The final attack happened on November 30, 2023, when Edwards grabbed the victim from a friend’s house, forced him into a van, and took him to another place.
On December 2, 2023, police received an anonymous tip and found the victim at a house. They also discovered weapons, including a gun, machetes, knives, and restraints.
On January 30, the court handed down lengthy prison sentences to the gang members. Jonathan Newns and David Povey were each sentenced to 20 years for robbery, kidnapping, and other charges.
Godiff received seven years and five months, Karl Johnson was sentenced to three years, and Armstrong received two years and four months. Luke Johnson received 13 years and six months, while Edwards was sentenced to just over 10 years.
Meanwhile, French police recently arrested seven people tied to the kidnapping and assault of a crypto entrepreneur and his wife. How did the case go? Read the full story.
Having completed a Master’s degree in Economics, Politics, and Cultures of the East Asia region, Aaron has written scientific papers analyzing the differences between Western and Collective forms of capitalism in the post-World War II era.With close to a decade of experience in the FinTech industry, Aaron understands all of the biggest issues and struggles that crypto enthusiasts face. He’s a passionate analyst who is concerned with data-driven and fact-based content, as well as that which speaks to both Web3 natives and industry newcomers.Aaron is the go-to person for everything and anything related to digital currencies. With a huge passion for blockchain & Web3 education, Aaron strives to transform the space as we know it, and make it more approachable to complete beginners.Aaron has been quoted by multiple established outlets, and is a published author himself. Even during his free time, he enjoys researching the market trends, and looking for the next supernova.
