Knife-Wielding Bandits Nabbed After Daring Twin Robberies
Zyon Elsom and Kane Sampson have both pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery, possession of an offensive weapon, and carrying a knife. Neil Clarke was found guilty of the same charges after a trial at Canterbury Crown Court.
Two Shocking Robberies Just Days Apart
The crime spree kicked off on 9 March 2021 at a Premier Store on Queens Road, Broadstairs. Around 7.30pm, a shop worker was threatened with a knife and assaulted as the gang demanded cash from the till. The robbers stuffed a bag with alcohol, cash, and tobacco before fleeing the scene.
The second brazen raid happened just three days later on 12 March 2021 at a post office in Joy Lane, Whitstable. This time, the thugs used a hammer to terrorise a staff member. They slammed the weapon onto the woman’s hand, pinning her down, while snatching cigarettes, tobacco, and her mobile phone before the emergency alarm alerted security and forced their getaway.
High-Speed Chase Ends in Foot Pursuit and Arrest
Kent Police rapidly picked up the trail. Local patrols spotted the three men near the A299 in Ramsgate soon after the second robbery. The suspects fled on foot during a chase but were quickly caught in a nearby field.
Officers recovered the hammer and the clothing worn during the robberies from both the suspects’ car and a related property. All three were swiftly arrested and charged.
Justice Served: Long Jail Terms for Ruthless Thugs
- Neil Clarke, 38, of Paragon, Ramsgate, was sentenced to 10 years behind bars.
- Zyon Elsom, 20, no fixed address, received a 3-year prison sentence.
- Kane Sampson, 21, no fixed address, was also jailed for 3 years.
“This was a terrifying ordeal for the victims who were simply doing their jobs and should not expect to suffer such violence at the hands of criminals like these three. They are a danger to society and will clearly go to great lengths to commit violent crimes with absolutely no regard for their victims,” said Detective Sergeant Jay Robinson of the Chief Constable’s Crime Squad.
“We are pleased all three have been given prison sentences and that a jury saw through Clarke’s lies. He is a prolific offender and I hope the local community will rest a little easier knowing these men will be behind bars for a considerable amount of time.”
