Stevenage man Jamie Kalaiarasu jailed for jewellers robbery and kidnap

Jamie Kalaiarasu, of Archer Road, pleaded guilty to robbery and kidnap at St Albans Crown Court. About £150,000 worth of jewellery, including Rolex watches and diamonds, was taken from Loveweds in High Street on Wednesday, March 20.

The 22-year-old was part of a gang which admitting stealing thousands of pounds worth of jewellery in a raid at Loveweds Jewellers in Harpenden High Street in March.

During the robbery a member of staff was forced into a car and had his shop keys taken so the gang could gain access to the goods.

Accomplice Ashley Latimer-Bassill, 24, of Crane Mead in Ware, was also jailed for six years while Daniel Stanley, 24, of Travellers Lane in Hatfield, was sentenced for five years.

Detective Sergeant Carolyn Taylder said: “This was a terrifying ordeal for the victim who was held captive by the group while they stole thousands of pounds worth of jewellery for their own personal greed.

“It was a pre-planned enterprise however our investigation was fast-moving and some excellent detective work led to three arrests being made within just a few days of the offence taking place.

“This result sends out a clear message that robbery will not be tolerated in Hertfordshire. We hope also that the jewellers’ staff and their families can take some comfort from it.”