Man jailed for Shropshire country house robbery
A man from Wolverhampton was today jailed for a total of nine years and eight months for his part in a robbery at a country home in Lower Rudge, near Bridgnorth, Shropshire on March 9 this year.
Nathan Rudy McDonald, aged 22, of Merridale Street West, Wolverhampton, was one of three men who broke into the property, tied up and beat its two occupants, stealing jewellery and three cars - an Aston Martin, Range Rover and a Mercedes.
McDonald was sentenced at Shrewsbury Crown Court after admitting robbery where vehicles and jewellery worth about £350,000 were stolen and also possessing an imitation firearm, namely a black handgun, while committing the robbery.
Detective Inspector Mark Bellamy, the senior investigating officer for West Mercia Police, said: "I welcome the outcome of today's court hearing. The long prison sentence imposed on McDonald, sends out a clear message that those who resort to violent crime, can expect little sympathy from the courts.
"This was a particularly vicious attack on a couple in their own home. McDonald and his accomplices were ruthless, quite prepared to use violence to obtain what they were looking for.
"Mr Barnfather and Miss Leadbetter were tied up and beaten, left battered and bruised, needing to be examined at hospital following their terrifying ordeal. It was everyone's worst nightmare - being attacked in their own home late at night by masked intruders, one of whom was brandishing a gun.
"I'd like to thank them both for their bravery, patience and support during the investigation. I hope today's sentence goes some way towards providing them with comfort and reassurance.
"I would also like to thank the public for their help and to stress that the investigation is very much on-going to trace all the offenders. We are determined to arrest everyone involved and remain confident of doing so.
"We have also received considerable support and co-operation from our police colleague in both the West Midlands and Staffordshire.”
"I wish to stress again that robbery and burglary offences, especially when violence is used, will remain a top priority for officers throughout Shropshire and other parts of West Mercia. Offenders like McDonald can expect to lose their liberty for a very long time."
Two other men arrested in the Wolverhampton area earlier in connection with the robbery have been released from their bail.
A 23-year-old man from Wolverhampton was arrested on Tuesday this week on suspicion of conspiracy to rob. He has since been bailed while inquiries continue.
A £14,000 reward is still available for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the offenders.
