A Birmingham mum was forced to flee her home and leave the city in fear after receiving terrifying death threats from her own brother over the phone.
Kevin Bennett, 43, became enraged during a call on August 12th this year, accusing his sister of suggesting that his girlfriend should end their relationship. The man, from Sheldon Heath Road, Stechford, threatened to kill her repeatedly and warned she could be seriously harmed if their mother intervened.
The sister, deeply fearful, hyperventilated during the call and took the threats seriously as Bennett had a history of prison sentences and connections to dangerous individuals. After the call ended, Bennett tried to call her back several times, but she refused to answer and made the decision to leave her home and move to London for safety.
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When their mother tried to intervene, Bennett escalated his threats, even telling her he had employed people to harm his sister and damage her house. Despite warnings, he continued with abusive and threatening behavior fueled by alcohol, drugs, and untreated mental health issues.
At Birmingham Crown Court, Bennett admitted to making threats to kill and a threatening communication offense. He was sentenced to two years and four months in prison and received a ten-year restraining order barring any contact with his sister.
In court, Bennett expressed regret and had written apologetic letters to his family, claiming he couldn’t remember his violent outburst due to intoxication. His lawyer explained he has since begun receiving proper mental health treatment while in custody, describing his previous behavior as part of a “downward spiral.”
Judge Simon Drew KC acknowledged Bennett’s remorse but emphasized the serious impact of his threats, noting the distress and anxiety they caused his sister. The judge stressed that written apologies could not erase the trauma inflicted.
This case highlights the devastating effects of domestic threats and the importance of mental health treatment and legal intervention in preventing further harm.