Teenage robbers have their appeals dismissed

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TWO teenagers who were locked up for 40 months for their part in the brutal robbery of a Royal Mail employee have failed in Appeal Court challenges to their sentences.

Nathan Sylvester, 18, of Perth Road, Plaistow, and a 17-year-old accomplice, referred to as 'N' admitted the robbery when they appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court last September.

A third youth has since been tried and convicted of his part in the robbery, which took place outside Barking's MFI store in Abbey Road last May. He is yet to be sentenced.

After considering appeals by Sylvester and 'N' Mr Justice Pitchford and Mr Justice Roderick Evans said that, even though older youths may have put pressure on them to get involved, they deserved the sentences they got.

Mr Justice Pitchford told the court how Albert Donkar, was hit several times by 'N' and the third youth, before his cashbox, containing £3,500, was torn from his hand.

Sylvester, sitting in a getaway car nearby, drove all three of them away after the robbery scene, but all were caught shortly afterwards because Mr Donkar had noted the car's registration.

Lawyers for the youths argued that their sentences were too long.

Mr Justice Pitchford said: "Nevertheless, we note that these appellants took an active role in the execution of a serious offence of robbery.

"It must have been obvious to any participant, including the driver, Sylvester that it would require physical force."

The sentences imposed were not 'manifestly excessive' and he dismissed the appeals.