Knife-wielding man jailed for robbery in Barrow

A knife-wielding man has been jailed for robbery in Barrow.

Thomas Dempsey, 36, of Lord Street, Barrow, was sentenced yesterday at Preston Crown Court after admitting charges of robbery and three counts of possession of a knife in a public place.

The court heard how, on September 23, Dempsey attended the home address of a man in Anson Street in Barrow.

He knocked on the door and, when it was answered, he put a large knife through the door, causing injury to the man opening it.

Once inside, Dempsey made threats whilst holding two knives. He demanded money from the man whilst holding a knife at the man’s stomach.

Once money was handed over, Dempsey dropped one of the knives and fled.

The victim received a cut to his cheek, a cut to his finger and a stab wound to his thigh.

Dempsey has been sentenced to a nine year custodial sentence, comprising six years in prison with an additional three-year extension period.

Detective Constable Emma Mullan said: “Dempsey’s actions were incredibly reckless and dangerous and could easily have resulted in far more severe injuries being inflicted.

“There is no excuse for arming yourself with a knife and I hope today’s sentencing shows how seriously the police and the courts take such incidents.”

The sentencing comes during Sceptre, a national week-long knife campaign.

Sceptre includes a knife amnesty where people can safely dispose of knives and other bladed articles.

Anyone wishing to hand a weapon in should put them in a box or strong bag.

Never attempt to take an uncovered knife or bladed article out in public. Members of the public are also advised to go directly to a designated station when handing in such items.

The stations where you can hand your knives or bladed articles in are:

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