East Grinstead Man Jailed For Burglary And Knife Possession

A 19-year-old man has been jailed for 18 months for burglary and possession of a knife.

The investigation began in last year after a burglary was reported in Fountains Close, Crawley on 2 March 2024.

Following substantial investigative enquiries, Jamal Chery of Cantaloupe Mews, East Grinstead was identified as a suspect.

He provided a voluntary attended statement on 29 January this year.

The investigation continued and Chery was charged with burglary dwelling and theft, and fraud by false representation on 1 October at Crawley Magistrates’ Court. He was released on bail pending a further court date.

Nine days later, Chery was spotted by officers in Queens Square, Northgate, Crawley behaving suspiciously.

Officers spoke to Chery who gave them false information and ran away from the stop and search being conducted.

He was arrested on suspicion of possessing a knife blade or sharp pointed article in a public place after he was found carrying a knife.

Chery appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on 13 October where he was charged with the same offences and remanded into custody.

On 31 October, Chery appeared at Lewes Crown Court for two separate hearings covering all three charges.

Jamal Chery, 19, of Cantaloupe Mews, East Grinstead pleaded guilty to all offences.

He was jailed for 18 months; one year for burglary and false representation, and six months for possessing a knife blade or sharp pointed article in a public place.

Police Sergeant Tom Webb said: “I am particularly pleased to see the sentence reflecting the robust stance of Sussex Police on knife possession.

“Knife crime ruins lives, destroys families, and puts even the person carrying the knife at greater risk of harm.”

More information and advice around knife crime prevention can be found here: Stop knife crime | Sussex Police