Jail for axe-wielding brothers who robbed pensioner

Christopher and Stephen Bouskill armed themselves with an axe and knife when robbing the store on High Street, Wath, in October 2019.

They entered the store and made threats to the owner (78) before stealing his wallet and £700 from the till, a police spokeswoman said.

The Bouskills, who were described as a blight on the community, were both jailed at Sheffield Crown Court for ten years.

PC Jessica Pearce said: "The brothers' actions that day caused an innocent man to fear for his life.

"The victim, who was 78 at the time, was pushed to the floor, attacked, and robbed while being threatened at knife point.

“The man's bravery and commitment to assisting with the investigation throughout is to be admired.

“Luckily, Christopher Bouskill (40) drove his getaway car in to floodwater as he left the scene, and after being stranded was apprehended by one of our police dogs.”

Following his arrest, Christopher was linked to a burglary on Church Street, Swinton, which had been committed just three days before.

A laptop, cash and other items had been stolen.

Stephen (45) was quickly linked to a burglary in which almost £10,000 worth of sentimental jewellery had been stolen from an address in Bradlea Rise, Rawmarsh.

PC Pearce continued: “The Bouskill brothers are nasty and prolific offenders – both of them a blight on the Rotherham community.

"I am pleased that justice has been done, and both are behind bars for a significant period of time.”

Christopher Bouskill admitted offences of possession of a weapon, burglary and robbery and was sentenced to ten years and two months.

Stephen Bouskill admitted offences of burglary and robbery and was sentenced to ten years.