Netherton teen detained for vicious street robbery (From Dudley News)

Netherton teen detained for vicious street robbery

11:10am Tuesday 20th September 2011 in M-N

A NETHERTON teenager linked by a text message to a vicious street robbery in which a 16 year-old was hit with a knuckleduster and a baseball bat has been detained for 18 months.

The "terrified" victim who lost his mobile in the attack in a Dudley car park, was able to take the registration number of the robber's getaway car, which enabled police to track down 18 year-old Mohammed Wakaas.

When officers checked his mobile they found a message relating to the stolen phone and how the £70 from its sale was going to be split.

Speaking at Wolverhampton Crown Court, Recorder Andrew Smith told Wakaas: “You were part of a group, some were in disguise and weapons were used to cause injury to the victim in what was a secluded location."

"I am satisfied you were more than happy to share in the proceeds of this crime. The text that was sent the next day shows a cynical attempt on your part to benefit."

Wakaas of Saltwells Road admitted robbery and was sent to a Young Offenders Institution.

He said it was clear that Wakaas had not used a weapon and had not picked up the victim's mobile at the scene but he had to bear his share of responsibility for what took place.

Mr Ekwal Tiwana prosecuting said the 16 year-old was walking across a Dudley car park when he was approached by a group of Asian males.

One of them produced the knuckleduster and punched him in the face while a second struck out with the bat leaving the youngster with a cut to his cheekbone and swelling to his hand.

Mr Jas Mann defending told the court it was clear Wakaas had been caught "red handed" with the text message which showed he was actively involved in the disposal of the stolen mobile.

Adding: "Wakaas accepts it must have been a terrifying ordeal.

"He knows he made the mistake of involving himself in what was a very grave offence. He has brought great shame on his family who are at a loss to understand just why he became involved in this crime."