The gamble that didn’t pay off
Date published: 11 March 2009
A desperate gambler has been jailed for eight months after trapping himself inside a bookmakers during a failed robbery.
Faraz Ahmed (21), of Frederick Street, Oldham, walked into a William Hill betting shop in Oldham’s town centre in October 19, last year and attempted to win money to pay off his gambling debts.
Ahmed had £600 but need a further £400 to pay off his significant betting debt.
He played a roulette machine and blew all the £600 in a matter of moments.
In an act of desperation, Ahmed complained to staff saying it had taken his money.
As a member of staff went on to the shop floor to inspect the machine the defendant pushed his way into the office and went to steal some money.
He was trapped in the office by quick-thinking staff until police arrived and arrested him.Ahmed pleaded guilty to robbery at Minshull Street Crown Court, Manchester.
