Cheltenham man jailed for ‘distressing’ knifepoint taxi driver robbery
A Cheltenham man has been sentenced to more than five years in prison after admitting to robbing a taxi driver at knifepoint earlier this year.
James Smith, 38, appeared at Gloucester Crown Court on Wednesday 5 March, where he was handed a five-year, seven-month sentence. He had previously pleaded guilty to robbery, possession of a bladed article in a public place, and fraud.
The court heard how police were called to River Leys at around 1.40am on Saturday 11 January following reports of a robbery. Smith had entered a taxi wearing a face covering, sat in the rear seat behind the driver, and confirmed his journey. Moments later, he grabbed the driver, pulled him backwards and held a knife to his throat.
The driver, in fear, handed over his bank cards and cash. While physically unharmed, he was left shaken by the incident.
Smith fled the scene but was tracked down hours later after using one of the stolen bank cards at a local petrol station. Gloucestershire Police officers, including a dog handler and PD Airin, traced him to his home, where he was arrested. Officers recovered the stolen bank cards and the knife used in the attack.
Initially, Smith denied any involvement, attempting to shift blame onto another person. However, he was later charged, pleaded guilty, and remained in custody throughout the court proceedings.
Investigating officer Michael Harvey from the Criminal Investigation Department said: "I am pleased that Smith has been sent to jail as this was an extremely distressing incident for the taxi driver who was simply doing his job.
"Smith used a knife to force the victim into handing over his bank cards and money before using them for his own gain."
