Twin brothers sentenced over armed robbery at Lambeg garage
Two men have been sentenced at Craigavon Crown Court concerning an armed robbery in Lambeg in April 2024.
Jon and Connor Keating, both aged 27 at the time of the incident, whose addresses were given as Strangford Road Lisburn and Sandy Row Belfast, respectively, were each given custodial sentences of four years imprisonment – two years to be served in custody and two on licence, for the offences of Robbery, and 12 months each for Possession of an offensive weapon with intent to commit an indictable offence, to be served concurrently.
Detective Inspector Keon said: “On Friday, April 5, 2024, police received a report that a retail premises in Lambeg, had been robbed.
"It was reported that two men in their 20s entered the garage and attempted to buy goods.
"When they could not pay, they left the shop. They then arrived back a short time later, and in possession of a knife, made demands for money from the till to the shop assistant.
"The shop assistant, who was working alone at the time, called the police after the two men left. They had stolen over £500 from the till before fleeing.
"Jon Keating was located nearby and arrested shortly after the robbery.
"There were no reports of any injuries, but the member of staff was left badly shaken following the ordeal.
“Following further enquiries, officers arrested Connor Keating, Jon's identical twin brother in connection with the robbery. He was subsequently charged. "The sentencing offers reassurance that we will work tirelessly to bring offenders before the courts, so that victims receive the justice they deserve.”