Armed robbers sentenced to more than 29 years for cash in transit raid

Trio targeted the service station in Cuxton Road on 19 September 2012

Three armed robbers have been sentenced to more than 29 years in jail following a cash in transit raid in Strood.

George John Richard Brockett,(above) formerly of Mangold Way, Erith, Alfie John Barker,(right) 18, of Mangold Way, Erith, and Michael Robert McCluskey,(below right) 25, of Brinkburn Close, Abbey Wood, London, targeted the Temple Farm service station in Cuxton Road, Strood, at around 11.50am on 19 September and made off with around £50,000.

Witnesses said they had seen a weapon and the Kent and Essex helicopter and firearms officers were deployed.

Brockett was arrested by officers on 21 September while Barker and McClusky were both arrested and charged by 25 September.

Brockett had denied charges of possessing an imitation firearm with intent to commit robbery but was found guilty at Maidstone Crown Court on 21 February.

Today (22 March) Brockett was sentenced to 12 years in jail. McCluskey received a 10 year and eight months prison sentence while Barker will serve seven years in jail.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Wayne Totterdell, from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, who was commended by the judge, said: ‘I’m pleased with today’s sentencing as it brings to close a very serious crime.

‘This was a terrifying ordeal for the victims involved but I’d like to take the opportunity to praise the efforts of those who gave evidence and the officers who worked tirelessly to bring these three robbers to justice.

‘Brockett had tried to play down his role in the robbery by denying possession of an imitation firearm, despite evidence showing otherwise. All three of them will spend a significant time in jail where they can contemplate the consequences of their actions.’

 Updated on: 22 March 2013