Teen Thug Jailed for Nearly Four Years After Knife Robbery Spree on Taxi Drivers
An 18-year-old thug from Wraysbury has been locked up for three years and eight months after terrorising taxi drivers at knifepoint. George Appleton pleaded guilty to three counts of robbery and possession of a bladed weapon at Reading Crown Court last Thursday (11 April).
Knife-Wielding Attacks Across Wraysbury and Datchet
Appleton’s violent spree struck fear into lone taxi drivers over a frantic week in May 2018. His first strike came in the early hours of Sunday 6 May on Ferry Lane, Wraysbury, where he threatened a 53-year-old driver with a knife before stealing cash. The victim suffered head injuries and bruising.
Just days later, on Friday 11 May, Appleton attacked another taxi driver, aged 44, on the same road, leaving him with a nasty head gash.
The final robbery happened in Park Lane, Datchet, at around 3am on Saturday 12 May. The 38-year-old driver was assaulted and had his wallet and cash stolen, suffering a cut above his eye and bruising on his face and body.
Police Praise Victims and Hard-Hitting Sentence
Arrested on the same day as his last offence, Appleton was charged six months later and faced justice for his crimes. Detective Constable Peter Hindley from Maidenhead police station said:
“Appleton indulged in a violent spree of offending, targeting lone taxi drivers. He forced them to isolated roads where he launched brutal attacks. Once, he brandished a knife to back up his threats for cash.”
“This sentence reflects the bravery of the victims in coming forward and the hard work of the team at Maidenhead to bring this dangerous offender to justice. Appleton will now have time in prison to reflect on his actions.”
The jail term sends a strong message to anyone who thinks they can get away with preying on vulnerable workers.
