🚨 Robbery Foiled by Courageous Customers 🚨
In an unexpected twist on Malpas Road, Newport, an attempted robbery at a Ladbrokes took an unusual turn. When 55-year-old Neil Upton jumped the counter demanding money from the safe, it wasn’t just staff who sprang into action—customers banded together with the employee to detain Upton until police arrived.
Despite being confronted, Upton threatened the staff but was quickly secured by the brave individuals present. Upon his arrest, Upton remarked, “I just want to go back to prison,” later admitting he committed the crime intentionally with hopes of returning to jail. With a storied past of 33 convictions linked to dishonesty and theft, Upton pleaded guilty to assault with intent to rob at Cardiff Crown Court.
Upton was sentenced to 15 months in prison and banned from returning to Ladbrokes for three years. This episode is a reminder of the community’s strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
Stay safe and let’s continue watching out for one another! 💪✨ #CommunityStrength #BraveCustomers #LocalHeroes