In an alarming case that shocked Berkshire, 22-year-old Jacob Power was apprehended before his terrifying plans could come to fruition. Power, who reportedly aimed to become a ‘serial killer,’ had methodically planned to torture and kill occupants of The White Hart pub in Hamstead Marshall. The story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health intervention and vigilance to ensure public safety.
Detailed Plans and Chilling Intentions
Jacob Power’s dark thoughts led him to create a disturbing ‘kill list’ and dig graves in the woodland behind his home in preparation for his planned crimes. His GP referred him to mental health services after he admitted having thoughts of torturing and murdering individuals. Though initially dismissed by Power as ‘only thoughts,’ his detailed plans and actions proved otherwise.
Power’s strategies included breaking into The White Hart pub, intending to rob, torture, and murder its occupants. On several occasions in late 2024, Power unlawfully entered the pub, stealing items such as keys, room access cards, and disabling CCTV systems. Though the occupants were not present during these breaks-ins, evidence suggested a sinister plot.
The Police Intervention
The alarming chain of events culminated in February 2025, after mental health professionals requested a welfare check on Power due to an inability to reach him or his mother. During the check, officers discovered an arsenal of weapons, including knives, air pistols, ammunition, a Samurai sword, ropes, masks, duct tape, and chains, alongside extensive notes detailing Power’s intentions. Additionally, the graves he’d previously dug were located.
This chilling discovery prompted Power’s arrest under the Mental Health Act 1983. Further investigations led to more evidence connecting Power to his disturbing crimes, including stolen items from the pub and personal clothing matching CCTV footage.
The Verdict
Although initially charged with attempted murder, the case proceeded with eight other charges. On August 4, Reading Crown Court found Power guilty of burglary, criminal damage, attempted burglary, and possession of class B drugs.
The case conclusion brought relief to the community and the occupants of The White Hart pub. “We are committed to protecting the public and will always aim to bring such offenders to justice,” said Detective Constable Isabelle Denis of Berkshire West CID, underscoring law enforcement’s dedication to safeguarding society.
Addressing Mental Health and Public Safety
This case highlights the critical need for robust mental health support systems and proactive measures in preventing such incidents. Families and communities are encouraged to recognize and act on early warning signs of dangerous behavior, potentially preventing tragedy.
Maintaining wellness starts with recognizing triggers and proactively seeking help. If you or someone you know struggles with intrusive thoughts, consider mental health resources such as BetterHelp Online Counselling, which offers accessible support for addressing behavioral concerns.
The sentencing for Jacob Power is set for September 19, 2025, further assuring the public that law enforcement remains vigilant in nipping such threats in the bud.
