‘Violent’ armed robber jailed

An armed robber whose victims included a 14-year-old boy has been jailed for eight years.

Mark Crawford, 25, of Eldon Road, Luton, carried out three robberies in Houghton Regis in April 2012, on each occasion armed with a fake gun or a knife.

During his trial in November, Luton Crown Court heard jury had heard how Crawford disguised himself with a bandana and sunglasses as he stole mobile phones and an iPod.

The offences took place in Parkside Drive on April 2, Sandringham Drive on April 28 and again in Parkside Drive on April 30.

Crawford had denied all of the charges but a jury found him guilty on November 13 and he was remanded in custody until yesterday’s sentencing.

Judge Philip Bartle QC sentenced him to three eight-year jail terms, to be served concurrently.

Speaking after the sentencing, Det Con Rebecca Kitts of Bedfordshire Police said: “During the sentencing hearing Judge Bartle mentioned the effective policing methods and valuable experience employed by arresting officers PC Simon Death and PC Ben Ling in capturing Crawford.

“There is no doubt that Crawford is a violent man who used weapons to make his victim’s fear him.

“My colleagues and I are very pleased with this sentencing as it will mean members of the public will be safe from this man for many years.”

>If you have information about robberies in Bedfordshire, contact officers on 101, or text information to 07786 200011. Or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.