A man who sprayed petrol over two people and threatened to set them on fire has been jailed. Kevin Costello, of Cranmer Street, Long Eaton, used a child’s water pistol to cover his victims in fuel, before wielding a cigarette lighter and threatening to set them alight and burn their house down.
The incident happened in George Street, Mansfield, on the evening of September 30, 2021 , when Costello got into an argument with one of the victims and sprayed petrol through the window of his van. The second victim was attacked as she came to help.
After threatening to burn his victims’ house down, Costello fled the scene on foot but was later arrested. During a subsequent police interview, he admitted to carrying out the attack, but told officers he had only meant to scare his victims.
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He later pleaded guilty to two counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent. Appearing at Nottingham Crown Court on Monday, August 8, the 27 year old was jailed for six years.
Temporary Detective Inspector Andrew Hall, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “This was an incredibly frightening incident for the victims who were at real risk of very serious injury. I can only imagine the fear they felt as Costello waved that lighter towards them.
“Threatening people in this way is completely unacceptable and I am pleased Costello has now been brought to justice. I would also like to pay tribute to the bravery and professionalism of the officers who tracked him down and arrested him so quickly.”
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