Knife Gang Jailed After Threatening Dad and Son in Newcastle-under-Lyme
Blades Out During Shocking Robbery
Two men have been locked up after threatening a father and son with knives in Newcastle-under-Lyme last year. Yusuf Kose, 18, from Meadow Lane, Newcastle, was sentenced to 18 months in a young offenders institution at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court on Monday (21 March). He admitted threatening someone with a blade in public, breaching a criminal behaviour order, and theft.
Garry Lawton, 20, from Brickhouse Street, Burslem, was jailed for 12 months after pleading guilty to making threats with a knife and theft.
Tricked Drivers Pulled Over – Then Threatened
The court heard that on 3 May 2021, Kose and Lawton flagged down a vehicle on Douglas Avenue in Newcastle, pretending to need help. When the driver and passengers stopped, the pair pulled knives and threatened them before stealing a wallet containing around £200.
Police Praise Community Effort in Locking Up Criminals
“Kose and Lawton premeditated this theft and caused significant distress to the victims and the wider community,” said PC Adam Coomer, the officer in charge.
“I want to thank local residents who helped police with door-to-door enquiries and CCTV leads. These men carried offensive weapons and stirred fear in the area.
“I’m happy justice has been served. The force will always act decisively against violent offenders who prey on others.”
Lawton Jailed Again for Separate Violent Crimes
At the same hearing, Lawton was also hit with a six-year sentence, to run concurrently. This was for unrelated offences, including assault with intent to rob and robbery from August 2019.
