Michael Wilson, 36, of no fixed abode, was sentenced at Newcastle Crown Court on Thursday for a robbery at Birch Street Store in Jarrow on November 17 last year. He also pleaded guilty to 10 counts of theft from various shops.
Robbery details
Wilson approached the counter to pay for a £1 can of Dr Pepper. When the shopkeeper opened the till, he reached across to grab money inside, jamming the shopkeeper's hand in the till and covering her mouth as she tried to shout for help. He escaped with £200 in £20 notes.
Additional thefts
The court heard that Wilson committed thefts from Heron, Greggs, Sainsbury's, Asda, and independent shops between November last year and March this year, totalling £1,138.13.
Defence barrister Glenn Gatland said Wilson had been living with his partner, who developed severe psychotic episodes, and he left the address, becoming homeless. Gatland stated the offences were "all to survive when he has no home and no money, and he can't claim any benefits." He added that the robbery was not premeditated but an impulsive act.
Wilson appeared via video link from HMP Durham, where he works as a wing cleaner with enhanced status. He has 18 previous convictions from 31 offences.
Judge Recorder Richard Stubbs sentenced Wilson to 31 months for robbery, one month for theft from Greggs, and two weeks for each of the remaining nine thefts, all to run concurrently. The judge noted Wilson's "genuine desire" to turn his life around and encouraged him in that aim.
