Timothy Cooper, 42, gets six years for attempting robberies at a hotel and jewellers in Devizes during 2024.
The 42-year-old went to The Castle Hotel around 10 PM on New Park Street, February 18th. He wore a mask, demanding money from a person there. He pointed a concealed object in a tote bag. The concealed item was a pink, plastic toy bubble gun, which Cooper left behind when he ran away.
The person refused to give him any money and fought back as Cooper held him in a headlock. Cooper then held the object to the victim’s knee, forcing him to leave. He left The Castle Hotel empty-handed after the fight.
On August 24th, Cooper targeted Estcourt Jewellers, entering the shop before 2 PM while wearing a balaclava to conceal his face. He then brandished an object in a pillowcase, revealed to be a bread knife. The victim held a ring triblet above his head, refusing to give Cooper money and charged at him. Cooper then ran away from the jewelry store.
A trial found Cooper guilty of both attempted robberies. The trial was five days long and happened at Winchester Crown Court. He received a prison sentence of six years and three months.
Police Constable Sean Surgey said this was a great result and spoke about the courage shown by victims. Detective Constable Paul Baldock praised the sentence and commended the bravery of the victims.