Gambling Addict Aaron Gardner Jailed for Brutal Hotel Robberies and Rape
Aaron Gardner, 29, from Wollaton, has been slammed with a hefty 19-year prison sentence for a terrifying spree of robberies and rape across Nottingham, Birmingham, and London. The jury convicted him of five counts of robbery, one count of rape, and possession of an imitation firearm with intent to commit robbery.
Violent Attacks on Escorts to Fuel Gambling Habit
Gardner’s rampage targeted five women in hotels over just three months in 2019. Using violence and threats, he stole hundreds of pounds to feed his gambling addiction.
- In April 2019, in Nottingham, he choked a woman, muffled her screams, and ripped off £3,000 plus her phone.
- In July, he put another woman in a 20-minute headlock in a London hotel, stealing £60.
- Ten days later in Birmingham, he brandished an imitation firearm, threatened to kill a woman, and stole £1,500.
- Back in Nottingham, he choked and dragged a woman to the floor, causing facial and neck injuries while robbing her.
- His final brutal attack in Birmingham involved rape, silencing the victim with newspaper and threatening her and her family.
Police Nets Gardner After Thorough Investigations
Detective Constable Raj Johal praised the victims’ courage. “This appalling catalogue of offences would have gone unpunished without their bravery,” she said. Gardner was tracked down in Basford after officers sifted through hours of CCTV and matched his mobile number to calls made to the victims.
A search of his home uncovered mobile phones, a t-shirt, and baseball cap matching descriptions worn during the attacks.
“We hope the lengthy sentencing brings closure to the victims who were left petrified and in pain,” said DC Johal. “It’s never too late for victims of sexual abuse to come forward. We will listen, investigate, and fight for justice.”
Gardner has also been ordered to sign the sex offenders’ register for life, ensuring he faces ongoing restrictions after his prison term. Nottingham Crown Court dealt the hammer blow to the violent gambler’s reign of terror on 27 November 2020.
