Armed robber jailed seven years after pointing ‘fake gun’ at terrified Luton shop workers

George Olliffe, 31, of Talbot Road, Luton, pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence on Friday (21 February) at Luton Crown Court.

At around 9.30pm on Friday, December 6 last year, George Olliffe entered Betfred on Chapel Street armed with a hand gun and demanded workers hand over the money in the till and contents from the safe.

Olliffe was threatening the staff in an attempt to hurry them, but after having to wait for the safe to open he quickly left the shop with money from the till.

Bedfordshire Police made CCTV enquiries as part of the investigation and secured footage showed Olliffe walking up and down Chapel Street before putting a balaclava on.

Workers at a nearby business were able to identify the man as George Olliffe as he previously worked there.

Officers located Olliffe at his address and retrieved the fake gun from under his pillow in his bedroom.

Detective Constable Tracey Joyce, who led the investigation, said: “We’re pleased that this serious crime received the sentence it did and Olliffe will spend time behind bars to reflect on his actions.

"Thanks to the quick work of officers, the bravery of the victims and working closely with the local community we were able to quickly identify Olliffe and prevent any further offending.

"Carrying a gun, real or fake, will not be tolerated, especially to instil fear for your own gain and we will continue to pursue those who try to cause harm to our communities.”

George Olliffe was sentenced to seven-and-a-half years for the robbery and three years for the imitation firearm offence, which will be served concurrently.