Receiving eight years for robberies at bookmakers

48 year old Gary Lovett, from Roehampton, robbed the same bookmakers in Putney plus one in Garratt Lane in July last year. Wearing a a motorbike helmet he threatened staff at the William Hill branches with a fake gun.

Twice Lovett failed to get any takings from the Wandsworth branch but succeeded in taking over £400 from the Putney branch.

The investigation was launched by the Flying Squad, who were able to match the clothing worn during the robberies with CCTV footage of Lovett.

Lovett had been released on licence for a similar robbery with an imitation firearm at a different shop in Garrett Lane shop in 2010.

Det Con Vicky Bailey, the investigating officer from the Flying Squad said:
“Gary Lovett committed a series of offences against betting shops in South West London causing considerable fear and distress to the members of staff. Had he not been arrested he would have continued committing these robberies.

“The Flying Squad is committed to protecting the interests of commercial businesses in London, and in particular tackling violent crime.”

Having pleaded guilty Mr Lovett was sentenced at Kingston Court on Monday.

February 5, 2014