Gang Behind Bars After Armed Robbery Spree Hits £80,000
Four masked men have been jailed for a total of up to 19 years after a terrifying 8-raid robbery spree across Lancashire. The gang targeted Co-op and Spar shops in Leyland, Preston, Chorley, and Warrington between November 2021 and April 2023. Armed and threatening shop staff, they stole at least £10,000 per job and left workers shaken and scared.
Robbers Targeted Shops, Traumatized Staff
Wearing balaclavas and brandishing weapons, the four masked thugs struck repeatedly. Each robbery involved 2-3 staff working who faced threats and violence. Detective Inspector Denise Fardella condemned the brazen attacks. She said:
“These men entered stores wearing masks, threatening people doing an honest day’s work. Staff were left distressed and the impact cannot be overstated.”
The police launched a major investigation, dubbed Operation Pintail, which led to the arrest and charging of the four suspects. They faced Preston Crown Court this week.
Justice Served: Sentences of Up to 19 Years
- Daniel Lewis (Wigan), 19 years for seven robberies
- Daniel Holding (Wigan), 15 years for six robberies
- Anthony Heaton (Warrington), 13 years for five robberies
- Matthew Lowe (Wigan), 7 years for two robberies
Detective Inspector Fardella added that the sentencing sends a clear message:
“We will not tolerate this type of criminality in Lancashire or let criminals target our hardworking communities.”
Operation Calibre Targets More Robbery Suspects
The sentences come as police launch Operation Calibre, a week-long crackdown on the UK’s most wanted robbery suspects. Detective Superintendent Nick Connaughton urged public help to catch dangerous offenders, saying:
“Robbery devastates victims, often targeting the vulnerable with extreme violence. Although robberies are at their lowest since 2016, we will not be complacent.
“We’re increasing patrols in hotspot areas and pledging to catch and prosecute criminals who threaten our communities.”
Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Andrew Snowden said:
“Tough sentences on prolific offenders are exactly what the public wants. We’re backing officers with resources to crack down hard on robbery and make communities safer.”
