St Leonards man jailed after tying up boy in '˜terrifying' Peasmarsh burglary

David Pentek, of The Mount, was sent to prison after pleading guilty to robbery at a house in Main Street on Friday, January 29.

During the break-in, the unemployed 41-year-old tied up the terrified 14-year-old boy and ordered him not to move while he stole jewellery and other items, Lewes Crown Court heard.

The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, needed treatment for shock after the break-in.

Detective Constable Dominic Brown, part of an East Sussex CID team that tracked down and arrested Pentek, said: “This incident was a truly frightening experience for the boy involved, who was left badly shaken but otherwise unhurt.

“We’re pleased that the man responsible has been brought to justice and given a lengthy sentence for his crime.”

At around 9.30am on that Friday morning, the 14-year-old heard a window smash and phoned his father, who subsequently called police.

The boy remained in his bedroom, and shortly afterwards Pentek entered the room, wearing a black hoody that partially covered his face, and told the boy to stay put, tying him up in the process.

Pentek then stole a number of items, including jewellery and men’s aftershave.

He first appeared before Brighton Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, February 27, charged with robbery.

At Lewes court, Pentek was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £170 by judge Paul Tain who sentenced him to eight years in jail.

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