Two men have been sentenced to prison following a robbery incident at a shop in New Mills, Derbyshire, where they allegedly impersonated individuals from Liverpool during the crime.

Armed Robbery and Sentencing

Stephen Bradley, 56, and David Oakley, 48, targeted Maddy’s Store located on Church Road. During the robbery, they threatened the store’s employees with a knife and an imitation firearm. According to Derbyshire Police, the suspects were recorded on CCTV discussing a need to “get back to Liverpool” as they carried out the theft.

The robbery resulted in the theft of approximately £4,000 worth of cigarettes, £200 in cash, and nine bottles of whiskey. Contrary to their claims of being from Liverpool, police reported that both men lived just “five minutes down the road” from the store.

Bradley, who resides on New Street in New Mills, pleaded guilty to charges including robbery and possession of an imitation firearm. Oakley, who does not have a fixed address, admitted to robbery and possession of a knife.

On June 24, both men received sentences of four years in prison at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court for their roles in the incident.

Why It Matters

This case underscores ongoing issues related to violent crime and the use of weapons in thefts, emphasizing the impact on local communities and the importance of law enforcement in addressing such incidents.