Customer to cuffs – whopper criminal sentenced to 6 years after robbing his local takeaway

Police have today, Thursday 17 March, welcomed the sentencing of a Formby man following an armed robbery.

Robert Neal, 31, of Brows Lane, Formby, was arrested shortly after a robbery at Flames takeaway, also on Brows Lane, on 24th January 2022.

He was charged with robbery and possession of an imitation firearm.

He pleaded guilty and was today sentenced at Liverpool Crown court to six years and eight months in prison.

Detective Inspector James Halpin said: “Neal was a regular customer at the takeaway and lived a short distance away so it is incredible he made such a brazen attempt to rob it.

“He was armed with an imitation gun, which he discharged, at a member of staff. Thankfully they were not seriously hurt but I am sure they would have been terrified of what Neal’s intentions were and whether the gun was real or not.

“Nobody should be made to feel that way when going about their daily business at work.

“Neal was detained nearby a short time afterwards and pleaded guilty to the offences, which thankfully meant there was no necessity for a trial.

“I am pleased that he will now spend the next few years behind bars as a result of his actions.”