Merthyr man jailed for robbery

A man has been jailed after admitting robbery which took place at Owen Stores in Trefechan.

Stephan Thomas, 25 from Merthyr Tydfil was sentenced to six years in prison following his conviction.

The sentencing took place on Friday June 12 where Thomas pleaded guilty to robbery and being in possession of a knife in a public place.

Officers attended Owen Stores on Wednesday February 3, after receiving a call of an armed robbery.  Officers reviewed the CCTV from the shop and Thomas can clearly be seen walking into the store and brandishing a knife at the member of staff and can be heard shouting “Give me the money”. Thomas took around £40 in coins before leaving the store.

The next day officer were conducting arrest enquires for Thomas. Officers quickly located him and he was arrested.

Detective Constable Peter Davies said “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"