JAKE CLARKE AND SIMON RICHARDS FROM REDDITCH SENTENCED FOR FALSE IMPRISONMENT AND VIOLENCE
In December 2016, a disturbing case involving a father and son from Redditch came before Worcester Crown Court, where both individuals admitted to the serious crime of falsely imprisoning a teenage girl.The incident, which took place on July 16, involved the detention of a 16-year-old girl at her home address, with both Clarke and Richards playing active roles in the ordeal.
Jake Clarke, aged 21, residing on Prospect Road in Redditch, and Simon Richards, aged 52, of Evesham Mews in Redditch, both pleaded guilty to the charge of imprisoning the young girl.
The court heard that the girl was at her home when she was told to leave under threats of harm, with her captors warning her that "bad things would happen" if she refused.
Despite her attempts to leave, she was forcibly detained at the address for approximately 40 minutes.
During this time, Clarke allegedly grabbed her around the waist and kicked her in the right shin, preventing her from escaping.
Her mobile phone was confiscated at one point, and her messages were scrutinized by her captors, adding to her distress.
Further details revealed that Clarke and Richards accused the girl of promiscuity, which contributed to their decision to detain her.
After she managed to leave, she sought refuge at another relative’s house, visibly upset by the ordeal.
The court was also informed of an unrelated incident on December 21, when Clarke, at 10 pm, threatened a man at the girl’s home with a long black stick.
Giles Nelson, prosecuting, recounted that the complainant’s father challenged Clarke during this confrontation, with Clarke responding by dropping the stick and leaving the scene.
Clarke was subsequently arrested on December 27, and although he initially contested the charges, he changed his plea on the day of the trial.
In addition to the false imprisonment, Clarke admitted to threatening behavior against the complainant’s father, which occurred at her Redditch home.
He also acknowledged breaching an eight-week suspended sentence for driving while disqualified.
The court heard that Clarke’s behavior was concerning, especially given his prior caution for engaging in sexual activity with an underage girl.
Representatives for both defendants presented mitigating factors.
Adam Western, representing Richards, highlighted that Richards was suitable for an 18-month community order, citing a pre-sentence report.
Similarly, Charles Hamer, defending Clarke, noted that Clarke was employed and that his employers were aware of his court proceedings.
They expressed hope that Clarke’s employment would continue and that he could fulfill any unpaid work requirements during his sentence.
Judge Daniel Pearce-Higgins QC delivered the sentencing, emphasizing that Richards had a history of dishonesty and low-level violence, while Clarke’s past caution for sex with an underage girl was a significant concern.
Richards was sentenced to an 18-month community order with a 50-day rehabilitation activity requirement.
Clarke received a 12-month community order, which includes 100 hours of unpaid work and 35 days of rehabilitation focused on thinking skills.
Additionally, a restraining order was issued, prohibiting both men from contacting the complainant and from attending specific streets within Redditch for a period of five years, to protect her from further harm.
