East Grinstead Robbery: Violent Home Attack Leads to Jail for Surrey Pair

Two men have been jailed following a brutal robbery at a residential address in St Leonard Park, where a victim was left with multiple serious injuries after being attacked inside his own home. The incident took place on the evening of 3 December 2024 in East Grinstead, when a man in his 30s answered a […]

Two men have been jailed following a brutal robbery at a residential address in St Leonard Park, where a victim was left with multiple serious injuries after being attacked inside his own home.

The incident took place on the evening of 3 December 2024 in East Grinstead, when a man in his 30s answered a knock at his door. He was met by an individual claiming he had accidentally reversed into his car.

As the victim went to retrieve his keys to check the alleged damage, three men forced their way into the property. Once inside, they launched a violent assault while demanding money.

During the attack, the victim’s nose was broken using pliers. He also suffered extensive injuries including fractured cheekbones, broken eye sockets and a broken rib. He later required surgery to treat the damage sustained.

A small amount of cash, along with a mobile phone, earphones and car keys, were stolen before the suspects fled the scene.

East Grinstead Robbery: Evidence Secures Convictions

Following the attack, officers from Sussex Police launched a detailed investigation. Doorbell camera footage proved crucial, capturing clear images of two of the suspects before and after entering the property.

The footage led to the identification of Steven Webb, 40, and Alan Smith, 21, both of Tylers Close in Surrey. Further enquiries confirmed Webb’s vehicle had been in the area at the time of the robbery.

Both men were arrested on 6 January 2025 and later charged with robbery at Crawley Magistrates’ Court.

As the case progressed, Webb and Smith pleaded guilty on 22 July 2025. They were remanded in custody ahead of sentencing at Lewes Crown Court on 27 February 2026.

Webb was sentenced to 61 months’ imprisonment, while Smith received 46 months. Both men were also issued with five-year restraining orders. Additional charges of grievous bodily harm with intent were left to lie on file.

Investigations Supervisor Oli Robinson described the attack as particularly serious, highlighting how the offenders used deception to gain entry to the victim’s home.

He also confirmed that although a hammer was later used in an attempt to remove the doorbell camera, the effort came too late, as the key footage had already been secured by investigators.

Police say the successful prosecution marks the conclusion of a significant case, ensuring both offenders are now behind bars.

The incident has raised concerns locally about distraction-style burglaries and highlights the importance of home security measures, including doorbell cameras, which played a decisive role in securing justice.