pixabay.com A suspected thief at Buzz Bingo Swindon was sentenced to 24 weeks imprisonment suspended for 20 months at Swindon Crown Court this week after punching a police officer trying to escape being detained at the Buzz Bingo venue after staff recognized Robert Barton from an image circulated by bingo clubs.
The 38-year old and another man were detained by staff at Buzz Bingo after being suspected of earlier stealing from a cash machine at the Buzz Bingo hall in Feltham. The police were called, however, upon arrival, Mr. Barton decided to make a dash for it, striking an officer in the face in his escape attempt.
According to a report in the local newspaper, the defendant's escape plans were thwarted. Prosecutor Alec Small told Swindon Crown Court:
“Mr Barton ran for the exit but fortunately he was running too quickly for the automatic doors to open for Mr Barton to make his escape.”
The court heard that Barton, a former drug addict, and mental health sufferer, had 69 offences on his record.
Barton was sentenced to 24 weeks imprisonment suspended for 20 months. As well as a £60 fine, the judge ordered Barton to pay £200 compensation to the police officers, complete a three-month curfew, as well as 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days and the thinking skills programme.
Ben has been an massive bingo enthusiast and fan since playing at the seaside as a kid. Dedicated to bringing you the latest and best bingo news from the UK
