Knifepoint Gang Caught: Six Years for Lead Robber in South London Spree
Sean Tuso, 21, from Belmont Road, Wallington, Surrey, has been jailed for six years for conspiracy to rob. His conviction follows a hard-fought two-week trial at Croydon Crown Court that ended on 4 December 2020.
Joshua Norris, 22, of Colliers Water Lane, Thornton Heath, was handed four years and four months for robbery and handling stolen goods after pleading guilty in September 2020.
Joseph Hamilton-Peart, 20, from Craignish Avenue, SW16, received three years for attempted robbery following his guilty plea at the same court.
Violent Moped Gang Targeted South London Shops
The trio were part of a ruthless gang behind a string of knifepoint raids across Sutton, Croydon, and Lambeth between 23 October and 25 November 2019. The crimes were uncovered thanks to the diligent work of officers from Operation Venice.
The robbers hit convenience stores on mopeds, clad in helmets and dark gear. Armed with Rambo knives and hammers, they terrorised shop owners and customers, snatching cash, cigarettes, and alcohol.
Forensics and CCTV Crack Case Wide Open
- A hammer left at the first crime scene revealed partial DNA matching Joshua Norris.
- Tuso was caught after police found a stolen Honda moped padlocked in his garden, with him holding the key.
- CCTV from Tuso’s hostel showed Norris wearing the same outfit as during one robbery.
- Norris’s home held a crash helmet identical to one seen on CCTV and stolen motorcycle plates.
- Phone evidence uncovered Tuso’s videos showing the gang posing with stolen goods and weapons.
- Hamilton-Peart’s fingerprint was found on a Rambo knife left at an attempted robbery scene.
Police Praise Forensic Work in Capturing the Gang
“These men terrorised shops in south London over a four week period, threatening staff with knives and using violence to steal cash, alcohol and cigarettes,” said Police Constable Tadas Balnys from Operation Venice.
“The fingerprint, phone and DNA evidence was vital in identifying each of the criminals. I hope this sentencing reassures the community that the Metropolitan Police are here to keep London safe.”
The three were sentenced on 16 June at Croydon Crown Court. Their crime spree stole £24,000 worth of cash, alcohol, and cigarettes before police shut them down.
