Man used toy bubble gun in attempted robbery

A "dangerous" man who used a bubble gun in an attempted robbery has been jailed.

Timothy Cooper, 42, of Flax Mill Park, Devizes, pointed a pink plastic toy concealed in a tote bag at a worker at Castle Hotel in the town on 18 February last year before demanding money.

Six months later, Cooper entered Estcourt Jewellers wearing a balaclava and holding a bread knife concealed in a pillow case - in both cases, the victims fought him off.

Cooper has been sentenced to six years and three months in prison, after being found guilty of trying to rob two businesses following a five-day trial at Winchester Crown Court.

On the first occasion, the victim refused to hand over any money and fought back as Cooper placed him in a headlock while holding the toy gun to his knee.

At the jewellers, on 24 August 2024, the victim charged at Cooper and raised a ring-making tool called a triblet above his head, causing him to flee.

"He wanted the victims to believe that he had a firearm," said PC Sean Surgey.

"However, the victims put up a very courageous fight and refused to hand over any money."

"This is a fantastic result for the victims and for the residents of Devizes," PC Surgey continued.

"Cooper is a dangerous individual who waited for both premises to be quiet before entering and demanding money.

"This will no doubt have a lasting impact on the victims, but they can take comfort in knowing that Cooper has been jailed."

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