A former contestant on the reality show Big Brother, Simone Reed, has been released from prison early after serving just two months of a 32-month sentence. Reed, 37, was imprisoned for her involvement in a violent petrol bomb attack at the Peggy Junes bar in Redcar, North Yorkshire, which occurred on February 15, 2023.
Reed’s release comes just in time for the holiday season, allowing her to spend Christmas with her family. Recently, she was spotted shopping for Christmas gifts, carrying several large bags, as reported by The Sun. She confirmed her early release on Facebook, posting, “Merry Christmas – back home with my babies. 2026 is going to be our year.”
Details of the Incident
On October 9, 2023, Reed was sentenced after admitting to assisting in an intended arson. The attack unfolded when she and her partner, Carl Wild, were denied entry to the bar. In a fit of rage, they threatened the bar owner, stating they would “burn the place down and kill you and your kids.”
The situation escalated when Wild proceeded to purchase petrol at a local station to create a Molotov cocktail. Witnesses reported that he set the petrol bomb alight and hurled it at a man, resulting in severe injuries. The victim, David Brotton, suffered 20% burns to his body due to the attack.
CCTV footage captured the harrowing moment when Brotton was engulfed in flames, highlighting the severity of the incident. Additionally, the footage revealed Wild spraying bleach at Brotton before entering the bar, where he continued to attack other patrons. As a result, two other individuals sustained serious injuries during the chaotic scene.
Legal Consequences for Reed and Wild
Wild faced serious charges, including grievous bodily harm with intent and aggravated burglary. He received a sentence of 13 years and six months, with the stipulation that he would serve five years on an extended license. Judge Francis Laird described Wild’s actions as “a determined act of revenge” following a perceived slight.
According to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice, individuals released on Home Detention Curfew must abide by strict conditions, including wearing an electronic tag. Those who breach these conditions risk being returned to prison.
The case has drawn significant attention, not only due to the violent nature of the crime but also because of Reed’s previous public persona as a reality TV star. The community remains shaken by the events, and the legal repercussions for both Reed and Wild are still unfolding.
As the festive season approaches, Reed’s freedom has raised questions about justice and accountability, particularly in cases involving violent crime.
