A man who brandished a knife at a village shop worker while demanding money has been sentenced to six years in prison. Stephan Thomas, 25, from Merthyr Tydfil, pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of a knife in a public place following the incident at Owen Stores in Trefechan, Merthyr Tydfil.
Details of the Incident
Police were called to Owen Stores on Wednesday, February 3, this year after receiving reports of an armed robbery. CCTV footage reviewed by officers showed Thomas entering the store, waving a knife at a staff member, and shouting, "Give me the money." He then took approximately £40 in coins and fled the scene.
Arrest and Sentencing
The following day, officers conducted inquiries that led to Thomas's arrest. He admitted to the robbery and knife possession charges. On Friday, June 12, he was sentenced to six years in prison at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court.
Detective Constable Peter Davies commented on the sentencing, saying, "Robbery can have a devastating impact on shopworkers, and nobody should be subjected to violence while going about their work. A quick response from the team and the bravery and co-operation of the victim and his colleagues has ensured that Thomas has been put in prison for a significant period of time."
