Two brothers jailed after petrol bombing in Portslade

Police found the vehicle ablaze in Graham Avenue in June last year

Author: Grace O'HarePublished 7th Mar 2024

Two brothers have been jailed after petrol bombing a vehicle in Portslade.

Police found the vehicle ablaze in Graham Avenue in June last year - the fire also spread to the front gardens of neighbouring homes.

Following CCTV enquiries, forensic testing and an extensive investigation, Ashley Khan, 31, of Rodmell Avenue in Saltdean and his brother Nathan Thomas, 33, of no fixed address, were found at the centre of all enquiries and were arrested in relation to the arson.

They were further arrested for possession with intent to supply cocaine after large quantities were found during a search of Khan's home address.

Khan was also arrested for possession of cannabis.

After a three week trial at Chichester Crown Court, both Khan and Thomas were found guilty of conspiracy to commit arson and possession with intent to supply cocaine.

Khan was also found guilty of possession of cannabis.

They were sentenced together at Hove Crown Court.

Khan received a prison sentence of five years and six months and Thomas received a four year term.

Senior investigating officer, Detective Inspector Sharon Ford said:

"Following an extensive and complex investigation, we have managed to put two dangerous individuals behind bars.

"The impact of this crime on the victims and the local community has been significant, with residents of the usually quiet street shaken by the brazen acts committed by Khan and Thomas.

"We want to express our gratitude to the community for their support and assistance during our investigation.

"The eyewitness accounts provided were instrumental in helping us narrow our search and bring those responsible to justice."

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