A man who stormed three businesses in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, leaving staff distressed and in fear, has been convicted in his absence. Jeansy Lupini, 21, told a pregnant worker at the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists (RBSA) that he would kill her and her unborn child.
The Incidents
On June 12 last year, Lupini entered the RBSA on Brook Street. Initially acting politely, he soon accused a staff member of staring at him and asked how she would feel if her whole family died. He then threatened to kill her and another pregnant employee, drawing his finger across his neck to indicate he would kill the baby.
He then went to Trentina Restaurant on Mary Street, where he told an employee, 'I have a shank too,' pointing to his waistband. He also picked up cutlery and asked a female staff member about her social media accounts, leaving her very scared.
His final stop was SP Green Jewellers, where he knocked over a bowl of chocolate coins. When a staff member tried to reassure him, he flexed his biceps and leaned into her face, demanding, 'Say sorry to me.'
Court Proceedings
Birmingham Magistrates' Court heard that Lupini was found guilty in his absence of seven offences, including four counts of using threatening words or behaviour, possession of cannabis, failing to appear for court, and failure to surrender. A charge of common assault was dismissed. He had pleaded not guilty but failed to attend his trial on April 10.
Speaking through his lawyer on April 28, Lupini requested the trial be reopened, but the application was refused. He has no previous convictions. The sentencing was adjourned for a pre-sentence report, and he was released on conditional bail, requiring him to stay away from the three businesses and have no contact with the victims. Sentencing is set for July 10.
