Syringe-wielding robber jailed for two years

Tyler Hirst (22) stole £30 of meat and coffee from the Wortley Road store on February 13.

When he was confronted by employees, he made threats with a hypodermic syringe in order to escape.

Two days later, Hirst struck again at the same shop, this time stealing eight jars of coffee.

He was arrested in March after being spotted by police on patrol and appeared at Sheffield Crown Court on June 8 to admit one count of robbery and one of theft 

Hirst, formerly of Mount Pleasant Road, Rotherham, appeared at the same court last Thursday and was sentenced to two years in prison.

PC Ethan Knight, who led the investigation, said: “Robbery is a frightening experience for victims, and I am pleased that Hirst has received a custodial sentence for his crimes.

“Hirst is a prolific offender who treated this shop as his own private pantry, making life difficult for staff who were simply trying to do their jobs.

“I would like to thank all of the staff who gave their time to support the investigation.”