Maidstone Crown Court : Library image
A 31-year-old man has been sentenced to six years in prison for a series of armed robberies targeting businesses in Gillingham. Jack Holland-Batt, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery, one count of attempted robbery, and possession of a bladed article.
The incidents occurred on November 25, 2024, beginning at approximately midday. Holland-Batt first targeted a pharmacy on Canterbury Street, where he brandished a knife and demanded cash from a staff member. The victim handed over approximately £20 from the till. Holland-Batt then became increasingly aggressive, demanding more money before leaving the premises.
He proceeded to an amusement arcade on Green Street, where he again produced a knife and threatened an employee, demanding access to the safe. Upon being told there was no safe, he fled the scene.
Holland-Batt then targeted a third business on the High Street. In this instance, a shop worker retreated to a rear room, claiming she would retrieve till keys. However, Holland-Batt had left by the time she returned.
Following the robberies, Holland-Batt contacted Kent Police, confessing to the crimes but failing to provide his location. Officers subsequently attended an address known to be frequented by him and arrested him as he approached the property. During the arrest, he attempted to provide a false name.
Holland-Batt was charged and subsequently pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court. He was sentenced on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
Investigating officer, Detective Constable Emma Laimbeer, said:
‘This criminal pulled a knife on three people who feared they were in real danger of being stabbed. His reprehensible actions led to a swift response by local officers who tracked him down to a town centre address.
‘Nobody should suffer violence whilst at work and I would like to thank the victims who assisted our investigation and ensured this criminal has been brought to justice.’