Knife-wielding thug jailed for four years after robbing Blackburn taxi driver
Reece Waring’s chilling taxi robbery
At 8.40am on September 6, Reece Waring called a taxi from a hotel in Blackburn. He arranged to be picked up from a nearby street. Waring climbed into the front seat, claiming to be from Salford—though he couldn’t say exactly where.
Held at knifepoint for £70
Once the taxi reached his pre-booked destination on Bunkers Hill Close, 22-year-old Waring pulled out a knife and demanded all the driver’s cash. When the driver told him to get out, Waring pressed the blade to his throat and repeated the demand.
Luckily, the taxi driver managed to unbuckle his seatbelt and escape unharmed. Waring fled, making off with just £70.
Arrested and sentenced at Preston Crown Court
Police trawled CCTV and uses the driver’s description to track Waring down three days later. Formerly of Fearnlea Close, Blackburn, but now homeless, he was charged with robbery and possession of an offensive weapon, as well as criminal damage.
He was convicted and sentenced to four years behind bars at Preston Crown Court on February 21.
Police slam ‘cowardly’ attack
DC James Wilde of Lancashire Police said: “This was a pre-meditated and cowardly offence against a completely innocent victim just trying to make an honest living. Waring armed himself with a weapon and got into that taxi knowing there was going to be a confrontation—one that could easily have ended with the victim losing his life.”
“I’m pleased the courts have recognised the seriousness of Waring’s actions and I hope he uses his time in custody to reflect on his appalling behaviour.”
“Thanks to everyone involved in securing this conviction. A dangerous individual has been taken off our streets.”
