A burglar has been warned he faces prison for his involvement in a botched ram-raid on a Newcastle jewellery shop that caused approximately £100,000 in damage. Mohamed Khan, 22, was part of a group that reversed a van into Sunny Jewellers in the West End of the city on March 17. The ram-raid was abandoned when the van became stuck on a bollard, forcing the occupants to flee empty-handed.
Details of the Ram-Raid
Andrew Espley, prosecuting, told Newcastle Crown Court that Khan left his home address and a car was parked outside the jewellers. He got out and walked off to prevent the area from being blocked. Later, a van arrived with two men inside, including Khan. They reversed into the window but got stuck on a bollard, leaving them stranded. The owner of Sunny Jewellers stated in court that the incident caused significant stress for his family and left them feeling unsafe.
Other Offences
Khan was also involved in a Post Office robbery in Bradford and an attempted robbery at a Huddersfield travel agents in the same month. Subsequently, he committed an aggravated burglary at a home in Birmingham, where he stole £30,000 worth of gold. During that incident, a woman in the home picked up a knife, but Khan disarmed her and threatened her with the weapon.
Court Proceedings
On Friday, Khan, of Tyneside Foyer, Westgate Road, Newcastle, appeared at Newcastle Crown Court for sentencing on charges of conspiracy to commit robbery and aggravated burglary, to which he had pleaded guilty. Jamie Adams, defending, described Khan as immature and likely directed by others. He noted that other individuals involved in the crimes have not been identified and that Khan comes from a devoutly Muslim family, with struggles involving drugs and mental health issues. Adams said Khan mourns the loss of trust from his family and is ashamed of his actions.
Judge Gavin Doig adjourned sentencing until July 10, stating: "Only an immediate custodial sentence is appropriate for offences of this nature." Khan was remanded in custody pending his next appearance.
