Carl Robinson, 49, known as 'The Dread,' has received a suspended prison sentence for possessing knives found during a raid on his home, as a new sentencing regime designed to alleviate prison overcrowding prevents his immediate incarceration. Robinson pleaded guilty to three counts of possessing offensive weapons.
Officers discovered a blue bladed karambit knife and two flick knives at Robinson's residence during a search on September 29. The weapons were found in a kitchen drawer. Robinson, an associate of alleged crime boss David 'Long Fella' Hunt, has a history of weapons offenses, including convictions for carrying bladed articles and possessing firearms. In April 2025, he was sentenced to a community order for possessing eight offensive weapons, including samurai swords and knuckle dusters.
During a sentencing hearing at Westminster Magistrates' Court, District Judge Michael Snow handed Robinson a 48-week jail term. However, due to changes in sentencing guidelines, which mandate the suspension of sentences of 12 months or less unless deemed exceptional, the sentence was suspended for 18 months. Robinson will only face jail time if he commits further offenses within this period.
Robinson and 17 other individuals remain on police bail in connection with a larger investigation targeting the 'Hunt Syndicate.' The September raids involved approximately 800 officers and targeted 24 properties across London, Essex, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Suffolk. The operation, which included agencies like HMRC and the Financial Conduct Authority, is investigating offenses including tax evasion, money laundering, and conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm (GBH).
Three suspects have been charged with unrelated offenses following the raids. Andreas Nicolas faces charges related to possessing a revolver and an electricity-discharging weapon. Chartered accountant Charles Charalambous is charged with wounding with intent to cause GBH to resist arrest after a police officer was allegedly stabbed during the execution of a warrant. Bradley Byford faces a charge of possession of an electricity-discharging weapon. These three individuals are awaiting further court appearances.