Three sentenced for kidnap and assault of 17-year-old in Harlow
Two receive community orders while third gets jail time
Three men have been sentenced after the kidnapping of a 17-year-old and a vicious assault on an adult in Harlow last year.
Lewie Wilson, then 16, alongside Riley Dedman and David Dutton, were involved in a series of violent attacks after encountering two teenage boys on 7th January 2025.
Wilson assaulted one teenager who managed to flee, while the other was held against his will as the group moved through Harlow town centre.
Later, Wilson and Dutton drove the victim to Veilzy Avenue where they were picked up and driven away in a Seat.
The situation escalated when Wilson stabbed a man in his 30s who tried to intervene, leaving him with life-threatening injuries.
Paramedics rushed to provide emergency care that ultimately saved the man's life.
All three individuals were arrested, charged, and tried at Chelmsford Crown Court. Lewie Wilson, of Fluxs Lane, Epping, pleaded guilty to several charges including battery, kidnap, and possession of a bladed article. He was sentenced to four years in jail.
Dutton and Dedman, both of Harlow and North Weald respectively, were found guilty of kidnap.
Dutton was given an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to complete 70 hours of unpaid work.
Dedman received a seven-month community order and was also tasked with 70 hours of unpaid work.
Detective Alana McCreath remarked: “These serious and violent crimes resulted in a man fighting for his life. It is thanks to the quick and vital work of our ambulance colleagues and hospital staff that this was not a murder trial."
The three men now face consequences for actively hiding from police. McCreath expressed gratitude towards the victims, witnesses, and emergency responders, stating their involvement was crucial for securing charges and ensuring the case went to trial.