An armed robber who targeted a convenience store in Harlesden has been jailed today – but the hunt continues to find his accomplice.
Michael Johnson, 28, from Hayes, and the second man stormed Furness Convenience Store in Furness Road, to rob the shop of its takings on April 6 this year.
His accomplice held a gun to a customer’s head while Johnson tried to grab money from the till.
When the shop owner intervened a struggle ensued during which Johnson’s hat and hood were removed and the pair fled empty handed.
Johnson was identified using forensic material recovered from the clothing left behind and he was subsequently arrested.
He admitted attempted robbery and possession of an imitation firearm at his trial at Harrow Crown Court last month.
Today he was jailed for three years and four months for each offence to run concurrently.
Detective Constable Adrian Whitewick, who led the investigation, said: “Today, Michael Johnson has been jailed for his role in the attempted robbery of a convenience store which left staff and a customer fearing for their lives.
“While this brings some degree of closure, it is only half of the job. Today, we are issuing a CCTV image of the man we believe accompanied Johnson during this raid.
“If you recognise him, or know of his whereabouts, please contact the incident room. My message to this man is that we will find you, we will arrest you and you will be put in front of the court to face the consequences of your actions.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Flying Squad at Finchley on 020 8358 1752 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here