Ben Kelbie faces justice after a series of escalating criminal acts fueled by addiction.
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Escalation of Criminal Behavior
In a troubling case that highlights the dangers of addiction and escalating criminal behavior, Ben Kelbie, a 25-year-old from Arbroath, has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years in prison. His criminal activities began with a burglary at a flat in Glenesk Place, Arbroath, where he broke in and stole a games console and cash.
This incident occurred on February 2 of last year, just weeks before he committed a far more serious crime at a local Co-op store.
Terrifying Co-op Raid
On February 27, Kelbie entered the Co-op in Banchory armed with a large kitchen knife, threatening staff members at knifepoint.
Under the influence of vodka, cocaine, and valium, he instilled fear in the teenage employees, declaring he would not hesitate to harm them. During this terrifying ordeal, he managed to steal £250 from the till, feeling “invincible” as he carried out the robbery. This incident not only traumatized the staff but also raised serious concerns about public safety in the area.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Kelbie appeared via videolink at Forfar Sheriff Court, where he pled guilty to both the burglary and the armed robbery. His solicitor, Nick Markowski, revealed that Kelbie had been struggling with a crack cocaine addiction at the time of his offenses. Despite his troubling past, Markowski noted that Kelbie is making progress while incarcerated and hopes to transition to open conditions in the near future. Sheriff Jillian Martin-Brown acknowledged Kelbie’s efforts in prison but emphasized the seriousness of his crimes, imposing a concurrent two-month sentence for the burglary.
Impact on the Community
This case serves as a stark reminder of the impact that addiction can have on individuals and their communities. The fear and trauma experienced by the Co-op staff and the residents of Banchory cannot be understated. As Kelbie serves his sentence, the community hopes for healing and a return to safety. The judicial system’s response to such crimes is crucial in deterring future offenses and addressing the underlying issues of addiction that often fuel such violent behavior.
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