Man threatened shop staff at knifepoint

A man who threatened shop staff at knifepoint and stole hundreds of pounds in cash and goods has been jailed.

Philip McCarthy carried out a string of offences across Coventry and was arrested in February.

The 38-year-old, of Marlborough Road, pleaded guilty at Warwick Crown Court on 13 August to robbery, attempted robbery, possession of a knife and possession of Class A drugs. He was jailed on the same day for five years and five months.

Sgt Ian Powell, from West Midlands Police, said the sentencing was an "excellent result".

Officers identified McCarthy as a suspect after examining CCTV and engaging with businesses.

Sgt Powell added: "We know the distress this type of offending causes shop staff and how frightening it can be.

"By telling us where and when these types of crimes occur, you can help us take serial thieves and robbers off the streets and make Coventry safer."

The force said it was patrolling the city daily and working with Coventry City Council to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.

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