Masked thug who threatened to stab Sheffield shop worker before swiping lottery machine is jailed

Andrew Phillips, aged 28, was sentenced to four-and-a-half years behind bars after admitting raiding his local McColl's store.

Phillips, of Lowedges Crescent, Lowedges, threatened to stab a member of staff when he struck in the Lowdges Road store at around 7.30pm on Monday, October 7.

South Yorkshire Police said the Phillips, who was wearing a mask, shouted at the woman behind the counter, threatening to stab her and demanding she hand over money.

He then jumped over the counter and stole the Lottery machine used to dispense tickets.

It did not contain cash.

The terrified shop assistant and another colleague barricaded themselves in the stock room together while they dialled 999.

Phillips was identified when a review of the store's CCTV footage identified him as a regular customer

He was arrested the following day.

DC Ryan Griffiths, of South Yorkshire Police, said: "The victims involved in this case were two young women, who were threatened to be stabbed while at work one evening. Nobody should have to be scared that they will go through something like this.

"I am pleased we were able to quickly identify Phillips and remand him in custody.

"We will simply not tolerate those who commit robbery offences in the community.

“We do everything we can to make Sheffield a safer place to live and work."