A man has been sentenced to over seven years in prison for terrorizing his family. Dane May, 38, exhibited extreme behavior towards his siblings and mother, resulting in a series of violent threats and aggressive actions over a period of 18 months.
Details of the Attacks
The distressing actions culminated in an attempted attack on his brother, Alfie May, a professional footballer. On April 30, 2024, Dane attempted to break into Alfie’s home in West Malling using a paving slab. This escalation of threats left the family in fear for their lives.
Background of the Case
The escalation began after Dane inherited £120,000 from his late father in late 2023, which allegedly fueled his drug addiction. Family tensions reportedly rose over the distribution of this inheritance. Prosecutors described Dane’s behavior as a vendetta against his siblings, driven by jealousy and a misguided belief that they had informed the police about his actions.
Threats and Harassment
Dane’s threats were relentless and included:
- Claims he would prove how “f*ed up” he was by harming his family.
- Numerous threats to kill and rape family members.
- Attempts to intimidate them through aggressive messages and unwanted calls.
- Physical violence, including attempts to damage the front security gates of his brother’s home.
Legal Proceedings
The case was heard at Maidstone Crown Court. Prosecutor James Benson stated that the nature of Dane’s conduct was persistent and premeditated, causing significant distress to his family. His threats led Sam May to alert the police multiple times. On the day of the violent incident, both brothers and their mother received frightening calls from Dane.
Judgment and Sentencing
On June 4, 2024, Judge Catherine Moore sentenced Dane May to a total of 10.5 years imprisonment, which included:
| Type of Sentence | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prison Term | 7.5 years |
| Extended License Period | 3 years |
In addition, the court imposed a restraining order prohibiting Dane from contacting his family members or approaching any location they frequent, including football grounds where Alfie May plays.
Impact on Victims
The May family has been left deeply affected by Dane’s actions. Sam May described the emotional turmoil and fear they experienced. Their mother was forced to relocate to safeguard her family, and all members of the family expressed a desire for a fresh start free from fear.
This case highlights the serious consequences of familial violence and the lasting impact it can have on victims. As the family copes with the aftermath, they express hope for a safer future.
