Gay men in Birmingham defrauded of £100,000+ via Grindr dating app robbery scheme over ten months

Summary

A gang used the dating app Grindr to lure men in Birmingham for violent robberies. The group stole over £100,000 from victims who believed they were meeting potential romantic partners. The crimes occurred over a ten-month period in Birmingham, with attacks taking place at Sparkbrook's Golden Hillock Sports Ground. Five men were convicted of conspiracy to rob at Birmingham Crown Court on January 13. The gang forced victims to unlock their phones and drain their bank and cryptocurrency accounts. The robbers targeted gay and bisexual men, as noted by the judge, who stated the crimes were rooted in homophobia.