Two Yorkshire men sentened over three week blackmail plot
The pair demanded money from a woman over a weeks long period in 2024
Two Yorkshire men have been jailed for blackmailing a woman over a three-week period in July 2024.
Wayne Lee, 40, from Bradford, and Maximillian Barnes, 30, from Malton, have been sentenced at York Crown Court to 32 months and 21 months respectively.
The court heard how the plot began on July 3 2024 and lasted until July 23 2024, with the victim reporting threats from Lee until the evening of July 22.
Initially, the victim believed the demands were tied to a financial debt involving her former partner, who left due to fear of having to pay back the money.
As the threats continued, she handed over a PlayStation 5 console, an Apple Watch, and made cash payments totalling £200.
Evidence presented in court included witness testimony, WhatsApp messages, and voice notes demonstrating violent threats against the victim for non-payment.
Mobile phones were seized from Lee and Barnes during the investigation, but both refused to provide access to their devices and gave no-comment during interviews.
Detective Constable Sam Rivers of North Yorkshire Police said:
"The victim in this case has shown incredible courage to come forward and stand up against these two intimidating criminals."
"Not only has she continued her support of the investigation throughout without wavering but she also read her victim impact statement out at court herself, a rare occurrence nowadays and very impactful.
"Her courage has now prevented these defendants from committing further offences and harming others.
"Key evidence gathered during the investigation proved vital at court and the sentences today are welcomed by both North Yorkshire Police and the victim. I hope now some closure can be had knowing these two are behind bars."