25/06/2024

Ballymena Man Sentenced For Blackmail

Today, at Antrim Crown Court, a 22-year-old man has been sentenced to 28 months for blackmail.

Reece Carley, from the Ballymena area is to serve 14 of the 28 months in custody whilst the other 14 is to be served on license. A five year restraining order was also granted in respect to the victim.

Detective Inspector Crothers said: "The sentence passed down today to Mr Carley relates to his role in blackmailing a man in the Cullybackey area between July and October 2023.

"These ongoing threats left the victim intimidated and extremely concerned for his own personal safety, as well as for the safety of his family. It was a distressing ordeal for the man involved and I hope today’s sentencing provides some reassurance to him and to the public.

"I’m keen to take the opportunity to encourage anyone else who may be the victim of blackmail to contact police on 101 or a report can be submitted online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport"

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