Pair pulled knife on taxi driver during Burnley McDonald's trip
Dale Watts and Luke Walker (right)
A PAIR of thugs left a taxi driver fearing for his life when they produced knives and demanded he hand over his cash and keys.
The terrifying incident, which has left the victim with flashbacks and unable to sleep, took place when Luke Walker and Dale Watts called for a cab to take them to McDonald's in Burnley.
However once they had arrived at the fast-food outlet they left the taxi, under the guise of having to withdraw money, before returning to the cab and taking out two large knives.
Burnley Crown Court heard how Watts, who at this stage was sat in the front seat, held his knife to the taxi driver while from the back, Walker did the same.
In the end they escaped with around £85 in cash and a torch. A third man who had been with them was never charged with any offences.
On behalf of Walker, 32, of no fixed address, Oliver Jarvis said: “He is very sorry and that comes across in his letter that his has written to the court. He will be looking for a clean start on the release from this sentence.”
Philip Holden, for Watts, 31, of Regent Guest House in Burnley said: “I accept that he has previous convictions. He has expressed remorse within his pre-sentence report.
“He has very positive reports from the prison, he has used his time constructively accessing education and is working as a wing cleaner.
“Both of these defendants have used their time properly and there must be cause for optimism looking forward.”
Sentencing them both to a term of five years and six months, Recorder Mr Nicholas Clarke QC said: “I want to make clear to you both that my first thoughts go not to you but to the unfortunate victim in this case who must have been terrified to be faced by two men with knives.
“I have heard about the long-lasting impact that has had against him and the flashbacks of the ordeal at your hands.
“You both had knives and you both had drawn them. It follows that this must have been a coordinated and planned attack. The knives were held to his neck and ribs with the threat of force and you took all of the cash he had, searching the centre console and taking a torch.
“I make it clear that these offences are extremely serious.
“I take the view that you are equally culpable. This was clearly a planned attack.”
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