Sittingbourne man who threatened petrol station workers with imitation firearm jailed

• Michael Pollock demanded that the staff open the till or he would shoot them

A man from Sittingbourne who threatened two petrol station workers with an imitation firearm during a robbery has been jailed.

Michael Pollock entered the BP Service Station on the London Road, in Bapchild, just before 9.30 pm on Sunday 12 October. He demanded that a member of staff open the till, or he would shoot them.

The 35-year-old also threatened another member of staff, repeatedly shouting at him while pointing his weapon.

Police say one of the victims was able to flee the store and called Kent Police while Pollock climbed behind the counter and forced open the till, stealing a quantity of cash.

A second victim managed to grab the firearm and discovered it was a dummy. He threw it towards Pollock as he ran from the store.

The victims chased Pollock outside and were able to recover a small amount of money during the struggle.

An hour after the robbery, officers attended Pollock’s home address in Blossom Street and arrested him.

He was charged with robbery, and possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

He pleaded guilty to the offences at an earlier hearing and at Maidstone Crown Court on Wednesday 25 March and was jailed for six years and two months.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Jack Seager said: "Pollock was motivated by his own greed and used a weapon in a public place to inflict fear towards the victims, not caring about the long lasting impact his actions could cause.

"Quick work by officers meant this dangerous individual has been taken off the streets and will spend a significant time behind bars."

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