Gun scare at Corby hotel ends with jail for man in gold mask
On September 17, 2023, Romans Vodcics, formerly of Northampton Road, Wellingborough, sparked panic at The Raven Hotel on Rockingham Road, Corby.
Chaos erupts at The Raven Hotel
Around midday, Vodcics started abusing staff and smoking inside the hotel. The manager swiftly told him to pack up and leave.
When Vodcics emerged from his room, he wore a gold mask and carried what looked like a real handgun.
He calmly walked past the bar, then pointed the weapon at a hotel window before fleeing the scene in his car.
Armed police swoop, imitation gun uncovered
Police were quickly deployed and arrested Vodcics nearby. He refused a breath test on the spot.
Thankfully, the weapon was later confirmed as an imitation firearm — but the threat was all too real for staff and guests.
Prison term after rampage and destruction
While in custody, Vodcics smashed a CCTV camera, causing over £1300 in damage.
He was charged with possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear, failing to provide a breath specimen, and criminal damage.
After pleading guilty at Northampton Crown Court on March 11, Vodcics was sentenced to 14 months behind bars.
