Knifepoint robber in Rochester sentenced to over 12 years in jail
Luke Slater stole from the three girls in October 2022
Last updated 23rd Apr 2024
A man who robbed three girls at knifepoint in Rochester has been sentenced to 12 and a half years in prison.
Luke Slater stole the girls' phones, and cash and a ring from one of them, during the attack in a wooded area near Ethelbert Road on 15 October 2022.
He was arrested in Dagenham, Greater London, on 16 November.
Slater, 32, of Stevenson Road, St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex, was charged with three robberies, and making threats with an offensive weapon.
He was later convicted of these offences on 18 May 2023.
Slater also pled guilty to six counts of theft from shops in CIty Way, Delce Road, and the High Street, between 5 and 21 October 2022.
The judge gave Slater an extended sentence of 12 years and six months, owing to finding him dangerous, with a propensity to violence and substance misuse.
Slater will have to serve at least eight and a half years in prison before being eligible for parole, with a further four years to be completed on licence.
Detective Constable Matthew Wadhams, of the Kent Crime Squad, said:
"Slater is a violent criminal who thought nothing of making violent threats to steal other people’s property. The robbery he committed on three young girls was truly despicable and cowardly. He should be thoroughly ashamed of his actions.
"In complete contrast, his young victims showed considerable courage in assisting our investigation and providing evidence for the subsequent trial. Their role was key to ensuring this prolific offender is no longer a danger to the residents of Medway."