Violent Upminster Robbers Jailed for Up to 20 Years
Three men have been handed hefty sentences for a brutal May 2020 robbery in Upminster that left an 11-year-old boy with a gunshot wound and a man stabbed in the head.
Gang’s Terrifying Home Invasion
On the evening of 1 May 2020, police were called to a home on Kerry Drive, Upminster. Officers and ambulance crews found an 11-year-old boy seriously injured by a shotgun blast to the shoulder and a man in his 40s with stab wounds to the head. Both were rushed to hospital.
The gang forced their way inside after one of the robbers, Christopher Sargent, 28 from E6, posed as a delivery driver and tricked the homeowner into opening the door. They demanded cash and threatened the terrified child.
A legally held shotgun was fired during the raid, but thankfully the boy’s injuries were not life-threatening. The crooks made off with around £20,000 worth of jewellery and watches.
Justice Served: Three Sentenced
- Anthony Lascelles, 34, Hitchin: Sentenced to 18 years plus 5 years on extended licence after pleading guilty to robbery.
- Christopher Sargent, 28, Macaulay Road, E6: Sentenced to 15 years plus 5 years on extended licence after admitting robbery.
- Ajaypal Singh, 28, Banks Way, E12: Convicted of robbery at trial, also pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply drugs and possession of a bladed weapon. He was jailed for 20 years plus 5 years on extended licence.
Detective Praised for Expert Investigation
Her Honour Judge Lees praised Detective Constable Darren Warner for his “intelligent, honest and reasonable” handling of the case. She called him “an outstanding officer of whom the MPS should be proud.”
DC Warner said: “This serious and violent crime had a huge impact on the local community and left a family – including a young child – terrified. They will never forget that night.
“I’m grateful to the public for their support. The Metropolitan Police are strongest when we work with the community to catch those causing harm.”
How Police Cracked the Case
The Specialist Crime Command used mobile phone data and number plate checks, plus doorbell camera footage, to track down and arrest the gang.
The trio now face years behind bars after a terrifying night that shocked Upminster.
