Man with “distinctively large head” jailed after threatening shop workers with a knife during two robberies in the same day

A North Shields man who was recognised by staff for having a “distinctively large head” has been jailed after threatening shop workers with a knife during two robberies in the same day.

Billy Harvey, 26, was sentenced to six years and eight months in prison after targeting two stores in North Shields on March 1st this year — stealing laundry pods and coffee worth nearly £200.

Harvey’s first stop was the One Stop shop on Waterville Road, where he was accompanied by Daniel Cowie, 34. Cowie, wearing a balaclava, grabbed £27 worth of laundry pods and tried to flee. When challenged by a worker, Harvey threatened him by saying “I’ll stab you” while gesturing to his pocket. Fearing for his safety, the staff member let them leave.

Later that day, Harvey entered the B&M store in North Shields with another male. A supervisor, who recognised him due to his “distinctively large head”, watched CCTV showing him attempting to steal £52 worth of laundry pods and £112 worth of coffee.

When she tried to stop him at the door, Harvey pulled a knife and slashed toward her abdomen. The blade cut through her jacket but narrowly missed causing serious injury. The victim later said the attack left her terrified and has made her more cautious at work.

Harvey, of Howdon Road, North Shields, had 24 previous convictions and was already subject to two community orders at the time. He admitted two counts of robbery and one of possessing an offensive weapon.

Cowie, of Minton Lane, North Shields, who has 106 prior convictions, admitted robbery on the basis that he didn’t threaten anyone. He was jailed for 12 months.