Dartford Armed Robber Caged for Seven Years After Axe Attacks
A terrifying axe-wielding robber terrorised bookmakers and post offices across Bexley and Dartford – until justice caught up with him. Michael McClusky, 31, of Brinkburn Close, SE2, was sentenced to a decade behind bars at Woolwich Crown Court. He faces seven years locked up plus seven years on extended licence after pleading guilty to three counts of robbery.
Axe-Wielding Duo Strike Multiple Targets
The court heard McClusky and a partner stormed various shops armed with axes. Staff were threatened and smashed glass barriers as they stole cash, cheque books, and keys to fruit machines.
- 30 January: Two men burst into a Bexley bookmaker’s on Avenue Road at 8 pm, smashing the counter’s glass and holding an axe to a staff member’s throat. They escaped with over £2,000 and other valuables.
- 5 February: At 11:20 am, the same pair struck a Southfleet Road post office in Dartford. When confronted, one attacker hit staff with the axe handle and punched them. They fled with only £5, fleeing in a red Volkswagen Golf.
- 5 February: Just 28 minutes later, another post office on Forest Road was targeted. The axes came out again and tills were emptied – until a panic alarm sent the robbers running. They fled to a red car parked nearby.
Police Hot on Their Tail After Chaotic Getaway
Kent police spotted the getaway vehicle shortly after the last raid but it sped off, eluding capture. However, officers soon found two men talking to a taxi driver on Priory Road. When cops approached, the suspects bolted. One was caught – none other than McClusky.
Forensics Seal McClusky’s Fate
Evidence piled up against McClusky:
- A cheque stolen from an Erith post office was found in his bag at arrest.
- The black baseball cap he wore was recovered down his trousers – matching CCTV footage.
- His blood was found at two crime scenes on Avenue Road and Forest Road.
He was charged with robbery on 7 February. Another man arrested was released pending investigation.
Detective Sergeant Slams Dangerous Offender
“McClusky is a very dangerous man with a complete disregard for the law,” said Detective Sergeant Ian Barnard of the South East Command Unit CID. “He was on licence when he struck again. The joint efforts of Met and Kent police quickly brought him to justice. A lengthy custodial sentence is well deserved – the public is safer without him.”
Judge Shorrock branded McClusky a “high risk” to society, warning: “He sees offending as normal life. The public must be protected from him.”
