local news

Man jailed for knifepoint robbery

Written by Gavin on 25th October 2022

Rhys Hopkins, aged 19, from Trebanog has been jailed for three years.

Hopkins entered Park Stores in Penygraig on July 6th and threatened the member of staff with a knife, demanding that they handed over cash and cigarettes.

Detectives were able to retrace Hopkins’ steps by examining CCTV. He was identified and officers found clothing worn in the robbery at his home.

A tube of Pringles that had just been put out in the shop contained a fingerprint that was a forensic match to Hopkins.

He was sentenced at Merthyr Crown Court on Friday 21 October after pleading guilty.

DI Matt Hicks said:

“We will not tolerate knife crime in our communities, and this was a very alarming incident for the member of staff. I am pleased that, following our quick and thorough investigation, justice has been done for them and hopefully this sentence will help the victim recover from their ordeal.”