Two Men Jailed for 11 Years Following Armed Knife Raids in Chorley and Preston

CHORLEY — Two men have been sentenced to a combined total of 11 years in prison following a series of terrifying knifepoint robberies targeting local shops in Chorley and Preston.

The convictions follow an extensive investigation by Lancashire Police, which initially involved a public appeal and the release of CCTV images. The appeal sought to identify suspects involved in a string of armed raids that left retail staff severely shaken.

CCTV Appeal and Arrests

The investigation began in earnest after a knifepoint robbery in Chorley, where a masked intruder brandishing a blade threatened employees and demanded cash. Following the incident, detectives released clear CCTV footage of the suspect in a bid to gather information from the community.

The public response, combined with forensic evidence gathered at the scenes, led officers to identify and arrest two individuals. The investigation subsequently linked the pair to similar retail raids across both Chorley and Preston.

Sentencing at Crown Court

Appearing before a judge, both defendants were found guilty of multiple counts of robbery and possession of an offensive weapon. The court heard victim impact statements detailing the psychological toll the incidents had on the shop workers.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Police welcomed the 11-year custodial sentences, stating that the removal of these dangerous individuals from the streets has made local communities significantly safer.