An armed robber who injured a supermarket security officer and continued offending while out on bail has been sentenced to four years in prison.
Richard Gull, 32, of no fixed address, attempted to steal several bottles of alcohol from a supermarket in Sutton Coldfield on Wednesday, June 25. When confronted by security, he threatened them with a knife and injured a staff member, who thankfully sustained only minor injuries.
Charged with robbery and possession of a bladed article, Gull was released on bail pending his court appearance. However, despite strict bail conditions, he did not cease his criminal activity.
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Just days later, on Monday, July 7, Gull visited a food bank operated from a residential home in Erdington. Under the guise of requesting a sandwich, he burgled the property, stealing car keys and then driving off in a car parked on the driveway. The vehicle contained essential medical equipment vital for the care of a disabled family member.
West Midlands Police’s Roads Policing Unit recovered the stolen car later that day, but the medical equipment inside was never found.
Thanks to extensive CCTV analysis and investigative efforts by the Stechford Neighbourhood Crime Team, Gull was identified and arrested. He faced multiple charges, including several thefts from shops around east Birmingham.
On Tuesday, November 4, Gull was remanded in custody and sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court to a total of four years' imprisonment.
PC Hannah Kilminster, the investigating officer, stated, “Our thorough investigation allowed us to link Gull to multiple offences and secure the necessary charges. Despite previous court encounters, he showed no remorse and continued to commit crimes. We recognize the profound impact burglary and robbery have on victims and remain dedicated to bringing offenders to justice.”