Terrifying Colchester Robber Sentenced to Over 6 Years in Jail for Convenience Store Heist
In a recent court ruling, a man involved in a terrifying robbery at a convenience store in Colchester has been sentenced to six years and three months in prison. Gavin Booker, along with another masked man wielding knives, targeted the St George’s store on Canterbury Road earlier this year, making off with £100 in cash and £500 worth of cigarettes.
The incident unfolded as the store owner was in the process of stocking shelves when the two masked suspects stormed into the premises. The second perpetrator, who remains unidentified, forcibly grabbed the shop owner, resulting in a struggle during which the victim sustained a cut to his hand after grabbing hold of the knife.
To secure their loot, the robbers compelled the store owner to open the till while they covertly hid the stolen tobacco products in a rucksack. Fortunately, another local shopkeeper in the vicinity had spotted Booker prior to the robbery, providing crucial CCTV footage to the police, leading to his identification and later arrest. When apprehended three days after the incident, Booker was found in possession of a knife hidden in a bum-bag.
During his trial, Booker, a 31-year-old resident of Colchester, pleaded guilty to the charges of robbery, as well as to possessing a knife on two separate occasions in February. The court learned that Booker had an extensive criminal record, including a previous conviction for robbery dating back to 2011.
At the sentencing, Judge Martyn Levett expressed his empathy towards the store owner, acknowledging the terrifying experience he had endured while working alone at night. The judge also emphasized the importance of supporting and appreciating the dedicated efforts of shopkeepers who tirelessly serve their communities by keeping their stores open from early morning to late at night.
Simeon Wallis, representing Booker, argued that the unidentified accomplice played a more significant role in terrorizing the shopkeeper than his client. Wallis further highlighted that Booker had been homeless at the time of the robbery, living a transient lifestyle by relying on the goodwill of others.
Nevertheless, the judge handed down a substantial prison sentence to Booker, taking into account the traumatic nature of the crime and his extensive criminal history. In passing the sentence, Judge Levett underscored the need to protect the community and deter potential offenders.
The incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by those in the retail sector who dedicate themselves to serving their neighborhoods. The sentencing of Gavin Booker sends a clear message that such acts of violence will not be tolerated, and the justice system will act swiftly to protect both the victims and the wider community.
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