Knife-Wielding Pharmacy Robber Nabbed and Jailed for 12 Years in East Sussex
Three Armed Raids Shake East Sussex Pharmacies
Michael Youssefi, 42, from St Leonards, has been locked up for 12 years after a spree of armed robberies targeting pharmacies across East Sussex. The court found him guilty of three separate pharmacy heists and multiple charges for carrying a knife in public.
Violent Hold-Up at Hastings Pharmacy
The crime spree kicked off on May 9, 2022, when Youssefi stormed the Day Lewis Pharmacy in Hastings, face concealed and brandishing a large kitchen knife. He threatened the pharmacist, demanding Oxycontin, a highly controlled painkiller. After snatching the drugs, he fled—but a blood trail at the scene sealed his fate.
Quick Arrest Fails to Stop Further Crimes
Youssefi was arrested three days later after witnesses identified him. Despite denying the charges and being granted bail, forensic evidence linked him firmly to the burglary. While out on bail, he tried his luck again.
On April 27, 2024, the thug forced his way into Boots in Pevensey armed with a knife but fled empty-handed when passersby intervened. Later the same day, he struck again, robbing Kamsons Pharmacy in Eastbourne after threatening staff with the chilling words, “Do you want a knife?” He escaped with a box of Oxycodone.
Final Arrest and Harsh Sentence
The next day, police caught up with Youssefi in Hastings. A search of his car revealed stolen Oxycodone blister packs from the latest pharmacy hit. He was charged with robbery, attempted robbery, and knife possession.
During court proceedings at Lewes Crown Court on June 18, Youssefi pleaded guilty to all charges. On August 5, Hastings Crown Court handed down a hefty 12-year prison sentence, finally putting an end to his violent crime wave.
