Jarrow man charged following three armed masked raids on pubs

Three Newcastle pubs were targeted in the incidents. Image copyright Google Maps.

Detectives at Northumbria Police’s Central CID launched an inquiry following robberies in the city centre.

Now Michael Johnson, 28, of Thames Avenue, Jarrow, and co-accused Michael Sayers, 44, of Colston Street, Newcastle, are facing charges in connection with the alleged attacks on pubs.

The first incident took place at about 11.20pm on Sunday, February 16, when thieves targeted The North Terrace pub near to the Royal Victoria Infirmary hospital.

Two men wearing masks and armed with weapons entered the pub, threatened a staff member as they were locking up and made off with a quantity of cash.

Eight days later officers received another two reports of similar offences.

In the early hours of Monday, February 24, intruders attempted to force entry to the Cosy Dove pub on Hunters Road in Spital Tongues.

At about 11.10pm that night, two masked men entered the Trent House Inn on Leazes Lane as a staff member was closing up.

They threatened them with weapons before fleeing with a quantity of cash - the worker was not seriously injured.

Detective Sergeant Dave Lever, of Northumbria Police, said: “We know that these incidents have caused some concern among licenced premises in Newcastle.

“Despite the charges our investigation will continue and we still need any witnesses, or anyone with information, to get in touch with police.

“We are also keen to speak to anyone who may have seen a black Honda Civic in the area of the raids around the time of the offences in question.”

Johnson and Sayers have each been charged with three counts of robbery and one count of possession of an offensive weapon.

Johnson is also charged with burglary.

They both appeared at Bedlington Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, March 3.

Johnson has been released on bail and Sayers has been remanded in custody ahead of their next appearance at Newcastle Crown Court on Tuesday, March 31.

Anyone with information about any of the raids is asked to contact police on 101 or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.