Crime Solicitors

A 37-year-old man who pleaded guilty to attempting to kidnap a child has been given a four-and-a-half year prison sentence at Wolverhampton Crown Court.

Edward Burns from Smethwick in the West Midlands grabbed a nine-year-old girl by her coat and dragged her into an alley as she was walking home on Sunday, 29 March 2015 at 1.30pm in the afternoon.

The girl screamed – which alerted a member of the public who confronted Burns and told him to leave the girl alone.

This intervention caused Burns to let go of the girl and run away.

A police investigation led to the arrest of Burns, who was charged with and later pleaded guilty to kidnap.

After sentencing, Acting District Crown Prosecutor from West Midlands Crown Prosecution, Heath Westerman, said:

“Edward Burns’ motivation that day when he dragged the helpless nine-year-old into an alley was clearly sexual – and if it was not for the girl's screams alerting a passer-by, he may have succeeded with his devious plan.

“The prosecution team would like to pay thanks to the bravery of the young victim who assisted the police with their investigation – as well as the member of the public who intervened when she heard the victim's screams.

“They both played a key part in helping to bring this dangerous offender to justice.”

Duncan Lewis Criminal Lawyers

Duncan Lewis criminal lawyers can advise at any stage of a charge involving sexual offences, including child abuse, child sexual exploitation, kidnap, rape, sexual assault, revenge porn, prostitution – and making, distributing or downloading indecent images.

There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide – and a Duncan Lewis criminal defence lawyer can reach a police station for interview under caution within an hour.

For expert legal advice on criminal charges, call Duncan Lewis criminal lawyers on 020 7923 4020.

For 24/7 help at a police station, call the Duncan Lewis Emergency Hotline on 020 7275 2036.