Two sentenced following East Grinstead robbery

Following a violent robbery at an address in St Leonard Park, East Grinstead on 3 December 2024, two men have been sentenced.

On the evening of the incident, the victim, a man in his 30s, received a knock at the door. He was met by a man who said that he had accidentally reversed into his car.

As the victim went to get his car keys to see what damage had been caused, three men forced their way into the address and began attacking him, demanding money.

Pliers were then used to break the victim's nose.

A small sum of money, a phone, earphones, and the victim's car keys were stolen from the property.

The victim called for help and attended hospital where it was found that as well as having a broken nose, he had also sustained broken cheekbones, broken eye sockets and a broken rib, with surgery needed to repair the damaged caused.

Police launched a series of enquiries, including the collection of doorbell footage which provided images of two of the suspects.

Steven Webb, 40, of Tylers Close in Surrey was identified from the footage, and his vehicle was found to have been driving in the area at the time of the robbery.

A second man, Alan Smith, 21, also of Tylers Close in Surrey, was also soon identified in connection with the crime.

Both were arrested on 6 January 2025 and interviewed, where they answered no comment to all questions put to them.

The following day, the men appeared at Crawley Magistrates' Court, charged with robbery.

As hearings progressed, Webb and Smith pleaded guilty to the offence on 22 July, 2025. They were then remanded ahead of their sentencing on 27 February 2026.

At Lewes Crown Court, Steven Webb was sentenced to 61 months in prison, and Alan Smith, 46 months. Both were also been given five year restraining orders. Charges of grievous bodily harm with intent were left to lay on file.

Investigations Supervisor, Oli Robinson, said,
"The victim was seriously injured during the robbery, which was carried out under the guise of a false story to help Steven Webb and Alan Smith gain access to the address.

"Doorbell footage played a vital role in the investigation, capturing both Webb and Smith outside the property and after entering, their faces clearly visible throughout.

"Although a hammer was then used to remove the device in a redundant attempt to conceal their identities, it was too little, too late. The footage had already been secured, and it was only a matter of time before both were in custody.

"We’re pleased to now be able to bring this investigation to a close, with the two men now behind bars for their involvement."