Clown-masked blackmailer receives seven-and-a-half-year prison sentence

A man who extorted money from his neighbors while wearing a clown mask and brandishing an imitation firearm has been given a prison sentence of seven and a half years. Dean Snarey, 43, from Burns Way, Upper Stratton, in Swindon, issued a threat to shoot before discharging the weapon close to his victim, who believed they had been shot. In a statement, his victim expressed feeling as though they are perpetually “living in fear” following the incident on 6 October 2023. Snarey admitted guilt to possessing live ammunition but contested charges of firearm possession and blackmail, for which he was ultimately convicted. His sentencing took place at Swindon Crown Court on 25 October, following a trial conducted in May. Wiltshire Police reported that he arrived at the house, also on Burns Way, between 08:40 BST and 09:40 BST, demanding funds from the occupants. However, when they refused to comply, he damaged their door to such an extent that they were unable to open it to exit. Snarey then returned, donned a clown mask, displayed the firearm, and issued a threat to shoot. The firearm was discharged, and law enforcement later discovered a pellet casing. In court, Snarey asserted that the residents wished to purchase the firearm, and he was demonstrating its functionality. In a statement presented to the court, Snarey’s victim stated: “I always feel like I am living in fear and I don’t want to leave the house as I think it’s not worth the risk, I don’t trust leaving it.” They further added that the occurrence of the incident at their residence “means I am constantly being reminded of the trauma”. Complex crime investigator Catherine Baird commented: “I would like to thank the victims and witnesses who worked with us to safeguard the community from further offences from Snarey.” She also stated: “I’m delighted that Snarey has received a lengthy sentence for his crime.” Readers can follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X, and Instagram, and submit story ideas via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. This content is copyrighted by BBC 2024, with all rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the material found on external websites. Information regarding their policy on external linking is available.