In April 2020, two individuals, James Povey and Lewis Greenslade, aged 24 and 17 years respectively at the time, committed a serious offence at the Wantage Premier store on Barnards Way. The details of this incident were brought to light during proceedings at the Oxford Crown Court.
The court heard that Greenslade confronted the shopkeeper with an imitation firearm, demanding cash at gunpoint. This act, classified as gravely unlawful, led Judge Ian Pringle QC to sentence both Greenslade and Povey to 27 months in prison each for their roles in the crime.
The robbery netted £200 during the initial visit to the store. Povey, who works in the construction industry, was present at the store but claimed in court that he was unaware of his childhood friend’s intentions. However, a jury unanimously found him guilty of a single count of robbery on September 20th.
During sentencing, Judge Pringle stated, “Although both of you had differing roles in the crime, you were essentially accomplices.” The judge acknowledged positive character references presented on behalf of the defendants and noted that both had strong family support systems that could assist them in leading law-abiding lives in the future.
Prosecutor Sophie Stannard read a statement from the shopkeeper, who explained the profound impact of the incident. He expressed fear and anxiety as a result of the robbery, noting that he now feels nervous when individuals dressed in dark clothing enter his shop. He also shared his disappointment upon discovering that Povey, someone he knew personally, was involved.
Greenslade’s defense lawyer highlighted his young age at the time of the crime—17 years and two months—and his recent displays of remorse and positive behavior. Meanwhile, Povey’s attorney questioned the evidence used to convict his client while providing examples of his otherwise good character.
In addition to the imprisonment sentences, Judge Pringle issued a 10-year restraining order barring both men from entering the Premier store.
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