Thug siblings in Brierley Hill home raid

Sam Parkes, aged 19, and his sister Joely Parkes, aged 23, broke into their victim's home in Brierley Hill in the early hours of December 6 last year, Wolverhampton Crown Court was told.

The victim was punched several times by Sam Parkes while Joely Parkes picked up an iron bar and smashed the man's television, said Mr Edward Soulsby, prosecuting.

Sam, of Heath Crown, Dudley, pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm and was given a 12 month prison sentences, suspended for 12 months.

Joely, of High Street, Princes End in Tipton, admitted to criminal damage and was given a 12-month community order.

The court heard how the victim suffered 'slight injuries', mainly cuts and bruises to the face.

Sentencing the siblings, Recorder Miss Abigail Nixon said: "Whatever reason it was, I note repayment of debt, it does not justify either of your actions, assaulting him and damaging property.

"I am quite sure that the fact there were two of you there would have added to his intimidation and fear.

"Sam Parkes, you tried to use your head as a weapon and when that failed you carried out a sustained attack on him. It was not just one punch, and you acknowledge that. Fortunately his injuries were minor.

"Had you caused more serious injuries, be under no illusion you would have been going to prison today.

"Your offence is much more serious than that of your sister. This was a sustained assault and in my view there was a degree of premeditation, and there was an intention to commit more serious harm than actually resulted with the repeated nature of the attack and use of your head as a weapon."

Sam and Joely were also told to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work.

Recorder Nixon said: "Joely Parkes, you played your own part this intimidation which was mindless thuggery.

"There is punishment in the fact you have lost your good name along with your brother.

"I note that alcohol played a part, certainly in relation to you Sam."

Both will have to pay costs of £600.

Miss Nicole Steers, mitigating, said both were of previously good character, and both working full time.