Man Jailed After Failing to Rob Businesses Using Pink Plastic Toy Gun

A man was arrested after attempting to rob two businesses in England, using concealed weapons including a pink plastic toy gun.

On February 18, 2024, Timothy Cooper of Flax Mill Park, Devizes, England, reportedly attempted his first robbery at the Castle Hotel, BBC reported.

Wearing a face mask, the 42-year-old entered the establishment at around 10 p.m. and demanded money while pointing an object concealed in a tote bag at the worker. The victim refused, fought back and Cooper placed him in a headlock before fleeing.

Upon inspection, the object left behind was discovered to be a pink plastic toy bubble gun.

Six months later, Cooper allegedly made a second attempt at Estcourt Jewellers. This time, he wore a balaclava and concealed a bread knife inside a pillowcase while demanding money. Once again, the victim refused and brandished a heavy ring-making tool, forcing Cooper to flee the scene empty-handed.

After his failed robbery attempts, Cooper was arrested and charged with two counts of attempted robbery. Following a five-day trial at Winchester Crown Court, he was found guilty on both counts.

Cooper was sentenced to six years and three months in prison.