Redruth, England – Three men from Redruth, England, were sentenced for their involvement in a burglary and violent attack that included a shooting. Paul Amoah, Lee Mitchell, and Gavin Smale were convicted of various crimes at Truro Crown Court on January 30. Amoah received a 27-year prison sentence, Mitchell was sentenced to nine years, and Smale received seven years behind bars for their roles in the attack that occurred on July 6, 2023.
The incident, described as “brazen” by police, involved Amoah using a Beretta handgun to shoot one victim in the back, Mitchell hitting another victim with a hammer, and Smale acting as a lookout during the break-in at a residence on Drump Road. After the violent attack, the offenders then burgled the house, stealing cash and a passport.
Detective Inspector Dave Egan expressed concern over the seriousness of the attack, stating that the victim faced life-threatening injuries and had to undergo multiple operations to survive. Superintendent Ian Thompson reassured the community that such serious offenses were rare in Cornwall but acknowledged the impact they have when they occur.
Amoah, Mitchell, and Smale were found guilty of various charges, with Amoah convicted of attempted murder, wounding with intent, and aggravated burglary, resulting in his 27-year sentence. Mitchell was found guilty of wounding with intent and aggravated burglary and received nine years in prison, while Smale was convicted of unlawful wounding and aggravated burglary, leading to a seven-year sentence.
The police response to the incident was swift, resulting in the identification and arrest of the suspects. The use of a dangerous firearm in the attack highlighted the need for stricter gun control measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The severity and nature of the offenses committed by the three men underscore the importance of maintaining a strong and vigilant law enforcement presence in the community to ensure the safety and security of its residents.