Ferryhill robber who lunged at shop worker with knife jailed

Dalton James Angus, 23, filled a basket with items at a store in Dean Bank, Ferryhill, in May last year before running out without paying.

The shopkeeper chased after him and tried to wrestle the basket back. Angus then pulled out a knife and lunged at the assistant before fleeing.

Dalton James Angus, 23, from Ferryhill has been jailed for five years after he lunged at a shopkeeper with a knife after robbing the store (Image: DURHAM CONSTABULARY)

Police from the Ferryhill Neighbourhood Team raced to the scene and deployed a force drone, tracking Angus to a park bench where he was arrested.

Despite being shown CCTV footage in interview, Angus denied pulling a knife and went on to make further threats to the shopkeeper.

He was charged with robbery and possessing a knife in a public place. Angus, of Ferryhill, initially pleaded not guilty to the knife charge and was due to stand trial but later changed his plea.

He was sentenced to a total of five years in prison at Teesside Crown Court on December 11.

A restraining order was granted preventing him from entering the store again and he was ordered to pay more than £200.

T/Sgt Craig McGuire, of Ferryhill Neighbourhood Team, said: “This was a terrifying attack for the victim who luckily escaped without injury.

“We are glad to see Angus has been given a substantial sentence that will hopefully bring some peace of mind to his victim and give the community some respite too.”