A taxi driver from Leeds has helped catch two burglars after they called a private hire cab to help them escape with their loot.
The driver was called to Stanmore Street, in Burley, on 31st October 2013 where he picked up two males with a large TV, a Playstation and a bag of other valuables. He was then asked to take them to a property on Ashley Avenue, Harehills.
Vigilant Cabbie Calls in the Cops
The suspicious driver felt that there was something iffy about the men and decided to take a longer route to the house in the hope of finding a police officer. Unsuccessful with his initial plan, he dropped the robbers off at their home and subsequently called it in to the local police office.
Shortly after his call, officers arrested Hashim Ali and a 15 year old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, at the property on Ashley Avenue.
Prosecutor, Richard Smith, said: “The taxi driver became suspicious and drove around looking for a police car.
“Police went to the property and arrested Ali and the youth after finding the stolen items in the house.
“In interview the defendant denied burglary, he said he had gone out with the co-accused and they had found the items. He later admitted the offence.”
Justice
Leeds Crown Court heard that both of the robbers had previous convictions for burglary and violence.
Hashim Ali was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment. The 15 year old boy was ordered to serve in a youth rehabilitation scheme and was given a curfew.
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