Three teenage boys sentenced after robberies and carrying machete
The boys, aged 14, 15 and 16, were involved in two incidents last year that left their young victims traumatised
Last updated 16th Jul 2025
Three teenage boys who carried out separate robberies in Peterborough — including one involving a machete — have been sentenced.
The boys, aged 14, 15 and 16, were involved in two incidents last year that left their young victims traumatised.
The first robbery took place on 29 August on Bridge Street in the city centre. At around 5.40pm, the 14- and 16-year-old approached a group of teenagers and shouted at them. While some fled, a boy and girl remained.
The 14-year-old demanded to search the boy’s bag but found nothing to steal. He then asked the victims about their phones. Although they said they only had inexpensive handsets, the girl mentioned she had an iPhone charger.
The 16-year-old demanded the charger and threatened to harm her boyfriend if she didn’t hand it over. Fearing one of them was armed, she complied. The pair also took a £20 note from the victims after threatening to assault them.
The girl managed to walk away and call for help, prompting the robbers to flee. Police later identified the pair using CCTV footage, and the stolen charger was found at the 16-year-old’s home.
The 14-year-old was also involved in a second robbery on 9 February, this time with a 15-year-old accomplice. They were part of a group that approached three teenage boys near Hampton Hargate Primary School and led them to an area known as The Tump.
There, the 15-year-old brandished a machete and held it to one of the boys’ necks while the 14-year-old demanded valuables. The group stole an iPhone, designer trainers, and a puffer jacket from one victim and a bank card from another. A third victim, who attempted to flee, was caught and had a vape and cigarette taken after being threatened with the machete.
All three boys, who are from Peterborough, were sentenced at Peterborough Crown Court yesterday (15 July).
The 14-year-old admitted four counts of robbery and one of attempted robbery. He was sentenced to 20 days of rehabilitation and a six-month curfew.
The 16-year-old admitted robbery and attempted robbery. He was referred to the Youth Offender Panel for a nine-month contract.
The 15-year-old admitted three counts of robbery and possession of an offensive weapon. He received 25 days of rehabilitation and a six month curfew.
Detective Constable Guiste, who led the investigation, said: “These were terrifying experiences for the young victims who were simply going about their day.
"Threats and intimidation like this are completely unacceptable, and the use of a machete in the second robbery is particularly shocking.
"It is sad to see such young people involved in the criminal justice system. I hope they engage with the rehabilitation programmes and make more positive choices in the future.”