Knife-Wielding Robber Strikes at Co-Op in Ifield Drive
Craig Baker stormed into the Co-Op on Ifield Drive armed with a 10-inch kitchen knife, demanding cash from staff behind the counter. But the quick-thinking employee refused and triggered the security alarm, sparking chaos.
Violence Erupts as Staff Fight Back
Another staff member rushed to intervene, only to be punched in the face by Baker. Undeterred, the thug forced his way behind the counter and swiped two bottles of vodka before making his escape.
Still brandishing the knife, Baker threatened a customer as he fled the scene.
Police Act Fast to Nab Knife Criminal
Armed police quickly responded to the incident on 13 November last year. Forensics recovered fingerprints from the till area, which matched Baker, 43, who has no fixed address.
Baker was arrested and charged with two counts of robbery, possession of a knife in public, and threatening a person with a knife in public.
“I didn’t mean to do anything naughty… You guys have done the right thing getting me off the streets,” Baker admitted during police interview.
Thug Sentenced to Nearly Three Years Behind Bars
At Lewes Crown Court on 10 February, Baker pleaded guilty to all charges and was remanded in custody.
He was handed a 32-month prison sentence for his violent knife crime spree.
Detective Constable Catherine Richardson said: “Baker terrified staff and customers with a large kitchen knife. Thanks to swift actions and the security alarm, no one was seriously hurt. Forensics quickly led to his arrest within 24 hours.
This case shows our commitment to tackling knife crime and protecting our communities.”
