Sheffield burglar jailed for 13 years after threatening teenagers at knifepoint in 'dispicable' crime

Dane Shaw, formerly of Slingsby Place, Sheffield, burst into the rooms of two 18-year-olds and threatened them with a knife during a “terrifying” home invasion. The two teenagers were studying for their A-levels when Shaw broke into their Ranmoor home and made his way upstairs.

Detective Constable Leigh Fontana said: “When Shaw realised he couldn’t find anything of significant value to steal, he made them call their father and he told him he would harm the children if he wasn’t told where he could find more valuable items.”

The father was only moments away from home and confronted Shaw upon his return, which led to a “short tussle” resulting in Shaw fleeing the scene with cash, jewellery and a mobile phone. The teenagers later identified Shaw and police charged him with aggravated burglary.

DC Fontana added: “Shaw demonstrated absolutely no regard for the victims in this case, who were understandably terrified at being threatened with a knife in their own home – a place where they should feel safe and secure.

“While the two victims were 18-years-old, in this context they were children who were subjected to violence and threatening behaviour. Burglary is never a victimless crime – it has a significant impact that can be long-lasting and incredibly damaging for its victims.”

Shaw was found guilty of the aggravated burglary charge following a trial at Sheffield Crown Court.