Two people sentenced following violent robbery

Two people have been sentenced following violent robbery in Swindon on May 1 2024.

Matthew Brown, 38, of Ermin Street, was sentenced to three years in prison for robbery, affray and possession of an offensive weapon at Swindon Crown Court on July 9 after pleading guilty in April.

Brown was also ordered to pay a surcharge of £228.

Laura Taylor, 36, of Affleck Close, Toothill, was sentenced to two years in prison suspended for two years after pleading guilty to affray.

Taylor was also ordered to have mental health treatment for 12 months, participate in an accredited programme for 26 Days, have treatment for drug dependency and pay a surcharge of £187.

Both offenders were given restraining orders.

On May 1, 2024, the victim, a man in his 40s, was enticed out of an address in Stratton St Margaret by Taylor and then threatened with a knife by Brown who held it to his throat whilst demanding money.

The robbery continued into a communal area of a block of flats nearby, where Brown continued to hold a knife to the victim’s throat. The victim handed over cash and Brown and Taylor fled the scene.

Det Con James Pugh said: "Matthew Brown and Laura Taylor had previously denied all offences against the victim, who was subjected to a serious knife-point robbery. Laura lured the victim from his home address, where he was then confronted by Matthew, who was armed with a large knife. Matthew made violent demands while brandishing the knife and stole money from the victim.

"As a result, the victim was forced to relocate away from Swindon due to fears for his safety and remains affected by the significant mental trauma caused.

"The three-year prison sentence handed to Matthew provides some reassurance to both the victim and the wider public that this dangerous individual will remain off the streets.

"I would like to thank the witnesses who came forward and provided vital evidence that helped secure these convictions. Despite the serious and violent nature of the offence, they demonstrated considerable courage through their willingness to attend court and give evidence against those responsible.

"Faced with the strength of the prosecution case, supported by witness testimony, Matthew and Laura had little option but to plead guilty on the first day of the trial.

"I would also like to reassure residents that Wiltshire Police take all reports of crime seriously and will do everything possible to bring offenders to justice and protect our communities from violent criminals."