Six Men Jailed Over Botched O2 Shop Robbery in Chippenham
Six men have been sentenced for their role in a failed robbery at the O2 phone shop in Borough Parade, Chippenham earlier this year.
Robbery Foiled by Police Sting
The gang was caught red-handed on 16 March. Wiltshire Police, acting on intelligence about an organised crime group, awaited their arrival and stopped the theft in its tracks.
All six admitted conspiracy to steal during their court appearance on 12 June. Sentences were handed down at Swindon Crown Court on 14 August.
Sentences Revealed
- Jason Hunte, 27, of Avondale Drive, Hayes, Hillingdon – Two years and two months in prison
- Nusret Arslan, 24, of East Avenue, Hayes, Hillingdon – Two years in prison
- Jesse Madika, 24, of Amersham Avenue, Edmonton, Enfield – 14 months suspended for two years plus 150 hours unpaid work (served five months on remand)
- Jaheim Thompson, 23, of no fixed abode – Eight months suspended for 18 months
- Billy Gladdish, 28, of no fixed abode – 14 months suspended for two years plus 200 hours unpaid work (served five months on remand)
- Tyrike Rasgado, 23, of Deans Lane, Mill Hill, Edgware – Eight months suspended for 18 months plus 150 hours unpaid work
Hunte and Arslan, identified as ringleaders, received immediate custodial sentences.
Victims Speak Out
The court heard emotional statements from a customer and a sales assistant present during the raid.
“From quite happily sitting in the shop … to suddenly men bursting in, a fire alarm going off, and shop staff shouting to get out, I was filled with sudden panic and an overwhelming need to run. I feel angry and upset that these people thought they had the right to put innocent people in danger.”
“Immediately following the incident, I found myself overwhelmed with shock, fear, and anxiety. Since returning to work, I constantly assess whether customers may pose a threat. It’s made it difficult to relax and carry out my duties with confidence.”
Police Warn Criminals
Detective Constable Jared Yalden of the Serious Organised Crime Unit said:
“On the afternoon of March 16, masked men charged into the O2 store trying to steal. Wiltshire detectives, working with the Metropolitan Police, were ready to act following similar crimes across the south.”
“These offenders showed zero concern for their victims. Their greed drove them to target businesses across counties.”
“This result shows our community that such crimes are taken seriously. With these criminals behind bars, we hope people feel reassured.”