Man jailed for four years after hammer-threat robberies across Southampton

A man who carried out a series of robberies and burglaries across Southampton and surrounding areas has been jailed for four years.

Steven Kearney, 50, of no fixed abode, targeted eight stores over a four-day period between 26 and 29 December, threatening staff and stealing large quantities of tobacco products.

Armed with a pink hammer and wearing yellow marigold gloves, Kearney forced his way behind shop counters while carrying a bag for life to collect stolen items. In several incidents, staff were ordered to get on the floor, and at one location he smashed a glass door panel when challenged in order to escape.

The offences took place at Mr Local on Thornhill Park Road and Premier on Wodehouse Road in Southampton; Tesco on St Luke’s Close in Hedge End; Co-op stores in Nursling, Bishop’s Waltham High Street, Hamble High Street and Coronation Parade, Hamble; and One Stop on Kendal Avenue, Southampton.

Following enquiries, officers identified a vehicle believed to be linked to the crime spree. On Monday 29 December, with support from the National Police Air Service (NPAS), police located a blue Renault Captur connected to the offences. As officers approached the vehicle, items were seen being thrown from it, including a bag for life matching one seen on CCTV footage from several of the incidents.

The bag was later recovered and found to contain the pink hammer and yellow marigold gloves used during the robberies.

Kearney appeared at Southampton Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to four counts of robbery and four counts of burglary. He was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment.

Detective Inspector Claire Shawley said: “This was a series of frightening offences in which staff members simply going about their work were threatened and intimidated. Kearney showed a clear willingness to use violence to get what he wanted, and the impact on those involved should not be underestimated.

“Thanks to the swift work of officers on the ground, supported by NPAS, we were able to identify the vehicle, recover key evidence and bring Kearney before the courts. I hope this outcome offers reassurance to the communities affected that we will always take robust action against those who commit violent crime.”