A Sainsbury’s shop assistant was threatened with a knife during a terrifying robbery carried out by a masked couple, who have now both been jailed for their roles in the violent raid.
The couple remained at large for nearly two months until October 24, when they were stopped in Romford and found carrying theft tools, including a crowbar, bolt cutters, screwdrivers, gloves, and a torch.
During sentencing on March 5, the court heard that Nicon Popescu had originally come to the UK as an economic migrant and had worked in construction, but later became addicted to heroin, which led to the loss of his job, housing, and social ties.
Judge Barklem noted that Nicoleta Popescu had also fallen into substance abuse, using cannabis and crack cocaine, and had recently become homeless after estrangement from her family. The court heard she met her boyfriend while sleeping rough in a park in Romford.
“I’m told that you have limited recollection of the events due to being under the influence of drugs, but the CCTV footage shows someone who is agile and plainly aware of her surroundings, jumping over the counter and filling a duffle bag with tobacco,” the judge remarked.
Nicon Popescu was sentenced to three years and eight months in prison, while Nicoleta Popescu received a sentence of two years and seven months.
Judge Barklem described the raid as a “cold-blooded” burglary that had no doubt left staff and shoppers traumatised.
