Robber threatened to kill Bassetlaw housing staff before stealing cash

A robber who stole cash and bank cards after threatening housing complex staff with a pair of scissors has been jailed.

Jason Emmingham was a tenant at the supported multi-occupancy property in Bircotes, Bassetlaw, when he carried out the robbery on 31 July 2023.

However, Emmingham was already in rent arrears when staff were informed he had been trying door handles within the complex. When confronted by a member of staff in the accommodation’s office area, Emmingham became aggressive.

He picked up a pair of scissors from a desk and pointed one of the blades at the staff member. Emmingham threatened to kill the man and told him he was going to steal all the money in the office. He grabbed bank cards, around £480 in cash and other items from a safe which was used to keep tenants’ belongings safe.

Emmingham then fled the scene but was tracked down by police later that day. The scissors and various stolen items were discovered dumped in a garden a short time later. Emmingham, of no fixed abode, was jailed for three years when he appeared at Nottingham Crown Court.He had earlier pleaded guilty to one count of robbery at the same court on 30 August.

The sentencing comes as the force’s efforts to tackle robbery are put under the spotlight during Operation Calibre, a special week of action to target robbery hot spots, track down wanted suspects, engage with the community and provide advice to people to prevent them becoming a victim.

Detective Constable Matthew Jones, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “It must have been a frightening experience for the victim when Emmingham turned upon him in this violent manner.

“The complex had agreed to keep his room available after his return from prison, and given him plenty of leeway with his rent arrears. Robbery is a deeply unpleasant crime which can have an emotional impact on victims that goes far beyond physical harm.

“I hope the victim and wider community are reassured by the police response, which saw us quickly arrest and charge Emmingham and put him before the courts."