Ferryhill knifepoint robber jailed for five years

A robber who lunged towards a shopkeeper with a knife has been jailed.

Dalton Angus filled up a basket of items at a local store in Dean Bank, Ferryhill, in May last year before legging it out of the shop.

The brave shopkeeper ran after him and tried to wrestle the basket back but Angus pulled out a knife and lunged at him before making off.

Ferryhill Neighbourhood Team officers raced to the scene and put the force drone up, tracking the 23-year-old down and sharply arresting him on a park bench.

Despite being shown the CCTV in interview, Angus denied he had drawn a knife and made further threats to the shopkeeper.

He was charged with robbery and possessing a knife in a public place and put before the court.

Angus, of Ferryhill, pleaded not guilty to possessing a knife in a public place and was due to stand trial but later changed his plea and was sentenced to a total of five years in prison at Teesside Crown Court on December 11.

A restraining order was also granted stopping him from entering the store again and he was also ordered to pay more than £200.

Temporary Sergeant Craig McGuire, of Ferryhill Neighbourhood Team, said: “This was a terrifying attack for the victim who luckily escaped without injury.

“We are glad to see Angus has been given a substantial sentence that will hopefully bring some peace of mind to his victim and give the community some respite too.”