Hammer-Wielding Robber Jack Reeder Jailed After Terrifying Shoreham Co-op Raid

Intoxicated Robber Threatened Shoreham Co-op Staff with Hammer A man who carried out a terrifying armed robbery at a Co-op in Shoreham while brandishing a hammer has been sentenced to two years and ten months in prison. Jack Reeder, 33, of Seafield Road in Hove, entered the Co-op on Ham Road, Shoreham, on the morning […]

Intoxicated Robber Threatened Shoreham Co-op Staff with Hammer

A man who carried out a terrifying armed robbery at a Co-op in Shoreham while brandishing a hammer has been sentenced to two years and ten months in prison.

Jack Reeder, 33, of Seafield Road in Hove, entered the Co-op on Ham Road, Shoreham, on the morning of 10 May, where he threatened staff and demanded money from the till. He then fled the scene before being identified by witnesses.

Crime Spree Began With Shoplifting Crisps in Shoreham News

Earlier that morning, Reeder had entered the Shoreham News store on Buckingham Road, where he was aggressive toward staff and stole a packet of crisps. Minutes later, he escalated the incident by entering the nearby Co-op store armed with a hammer.

Shop workers, both with over 20 years of experience, were left visibly distressed, describing the robbery as one of the most traumatic events of their careers.

Witnesses later spotted Reeder casually eating breakfast at a local café and removing the hammer from a sock before fleeing on a bus.

Public Appeal Leads to Arrest and Court Appearance

Following a public appeal by Sussex Police, Reeder handed himself in and was remanded in custody after appearing before Crawley Magistrates’ Court on 13 May.

He later admitted charges of robbery and theft from a shop and was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court on 22 July.

Sussex Police Pledge to Crack Down on Retail Crime

Detective Inspector Andrew Ricks praised the bravery of witnesses and the public’s help in identifying Reeder.

“This case has had a lasting emotional impact on the victims, and we were determined to bring justice. Tackling retail crime remains a priority, and we’re pleased Reeder will serve a significant custodial sentence.”

If you have been affected by retail crime in Sussex, contact Sussex Police online or by calling 101.