A man who attempted to carry out a knife point robbery at a takeaway in Kendal has been jailed for three and a half years.
Josh Roelants, 21, of Park Avenue, Windermere was sentenced today (7 February) at Carlisle Crown Court for attempted knife point robbery and possession of a bladed article in a public place.
Roelents pleaded guilty to all offences at an earlier hearing.
The court heard how Roelants entered the Chinese takeaway on Highgate Road, Kendal shortly after 9pm on 23rd October 2023 posing a prospective customer, when he approached the front counter.
Roelants had no intention of purchasing goods and instead reached into his pocket and pulled out a large kitchen knife, pointing it towards the lone staff member instructing them to “give me all your money”.
Having heard the threat, another staff member appeared and Roelants immediately retreated, fleeing from the scene.
Following an area search, officers were quickly able to locate Roelants less than 30 minutes later and he was arrested.
During a further search officers located a large kitchen knife matching the description of the knife used in the offence.
Roelants was also sentenced for a separate offence of theft which occurred on 26 August 2023 whereby Roelants snatched a handbag from a person on Highgate, Kendal.
Speaking after the sentencing, Police Constable James Winder, working within Kendal & Eden CID, said: “This was a terrifying ordeal for the victims of the attempted robbery, who were simply doing their job, and thankfully no one was hurt.
“I am pleased with today’s sentencing and hope this sends a clear message to anyone making a conscious decision to carry a knife and use it to intimidate members of the public.
“These types of offences are completely unacceptable, and we will do everything we can to bring criminals to justice.”
