Violent robber jailed for over five years – Exeter

A robber has been sentenced to five and a half years behind bars after violently attacking a man and stealing his possessions, following a British Transport Police Investigation.

Rhys Wright, 22, and of HMP Portland, appeared at Exeter Crown Court on Tuesday 27 July where he pleaded guilty to one count of robbery.

On Tuesday 7 September he was handed a 66-month sentence and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £190.

The court heard how on Tuesday 3 August 2020, Wright asked his friend to walk him to Exeter St Thomas railway station. When they arrived at the station, Wright swung a glass cider bottle at his jaw, shouting, “Do you want me to stab you? Give me your s**t”.

He ran out of the station, while Wright chased him and continued to threaten him and demand he handed over his possessions. Wright punched him and knocked him to the floor, repeatedly punching and kicking him in the head.

While he was on the floor, Wright stole his watch from his wrist and demanded he handed over money.

Wright was arrested at the scene and placed in a police car to be taken to custody, where he claimed, “Me and my mate had a little scuffle, so what?”.

The victim attended hospital suffering facial injuries including swelling and fractured teeth.

Investigating officer in the case, Sergeant Gary Archer, said: “This vicious and brazen robbery left the victim fearing for his life, and it is staggering it was carried out by someone he thought was his friend.

“The length of this sentence reflects Wright’s merciless behaviour and the severity of his actions.

“Thankfully, the victim didn’t suffer more severe injuries, however I’m pleased to see this violent offender off the network and behind bars.”