Repeat Offender Cody Finnigan Jailed After Double Robbery at Nike Store in East Kilbride

A serial offender has admitted carrying out two robberies at a popular sports store in East Kilbride over the course of just three days.

Cody Finnigan, 34, targeted the busy Nike factory store located within the Kingsgate Retail Park, leaving retail staff shaken during the back-to-back incidents in May last year.

Envelopes of Cash Pretext

Hamilton Sheriff Court heard that on May 16, 2025, Finnigan entered the Nike outlet and selected a quantity of clothing and sportswear valued at £491. He approached the cash desk and attempted to pay using envelopes which he claimed contained cash. However, when shop workers began to inspect the envelopes, Finnigan became highly agitated.

A physical struggle ensued at the counter as Finnigan grabbed the bags containing the stolen items. He aggressively challenged the store workers to a fight before forcing his way out of the shop and making off into the retail park.

Knifepoint Threat to Manager

Undeterred by the police investigation into the first incident, the 34-year-old returned to the same retail unit just 48 hours later, on May 18. During this second visit, Finnigan selected two boxes of designer trainers, worth £240, and attempted to walk past the checkout area without paying.

When the store manager intervened and stood in front of the exit to prevent his escape, Finnigan turned hostile. He lunged toward the manager and threatened to stab him if he did not immediately step aside. Fearing for his safety, the manager was forced to let him pass. Finnigan then fled the scene for a second time.

Extensive Criminal Record

Finnigan, originally from Castlemilk in Glasgow, pleaded guilty to charges of robbery and assault. The prosecutor highlighted Finnigan's extensive history of offending, noting that he possesses an appalling record for crimes of dishonesty, shoplifting, and assault. The court also heard that he was already serving a 15-month prison term for another offense at the time of the prosecution.

The defense agent acknowledged that Finnigan had long struggled with substance abuse, which fueled his chaotic offending. Sheriff John Hamilton deferred sentencing until next month for the preparation of a criminal justice social work report and a restriction of liberty assessment, remanding Finnigan in custody in the meantime.