05/12/2022

39-Year-Old Sentenced To 10 years For String Of Burglaries

Detectives from the PSNI have welcomed the sentencing of 39-year-old Damian Ferris in relation to seven armed robberies and one attempted armed robbery in Belfast.

Today, Monday 5 December, at Belfast Crown Court, Ferris was handed sentences of 10 years in relation to each of the eight incidents. All will run concurrently, meaning he will serve a total of 10 years – five years in custody and five years on licence.

The robberies took place at commercial premises – including off-licences and chemists – across Greater Belfast in late 2017 and early 2018.

Detective Inspector Keith Wilson said: "Today's result has followed from investigations into eight incidents in 2017 and 2018.

"On each occasion, Ferris would enter the property armed with a firearm and demand money, or – in some cases – other items such as prescription medicines.

"In each case, it was, understandably, a traumatic ordeal for staff and indeed customers who were present.

"I'm keen to acknowledge the support of members of the public and the dedication of our officers throughout this lengthy and complex investigation.

"I can only hope that today's sentencing sends out a very clear message to anyone who thinks that they can get away with such despicable acts. We will work tirelessly to keep people safe and to bring offenders before the courts."

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

18 April 2024
Other News In Brief
SDLP Criticise SF And Alliance For Backing DUP Amendment The SDLP have accused Sinn Féin and the Alliance Party of allowing the DUP to "delay action on poverty". Leader of the Opposition Matthew O'Toole made the accusation, after the Executive parties backed a DUP amendment to the SDLP's Opposition Day proposal to remove the two-child limit.
12 February 2024
22-Year-Old Man Jailed For Rape At Laganside Crown Court
A 22-year-old man has been sentenced to six years for rape at Laganside Crown Court. Ahmad Alsbaihi was sentenced to six years. He will serve three years in custody and three years on licence. He will be placed on the Sex Offenders Register and will be subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) for 10 years.
17 April 2024
Appeal Following Attempted Kidnapping In Belfast City Centre
Three men have been arrested in connection with an attempted kidnapping in Belfast City Centre on Tuesday, 16 April. Police have said that officers were on patrol in the Bruce Street area shortly after 12.05pm when they observed an altercation between a number of men.
16 April 2024
Appeal Following Arson Attack In South Belfast
The PSNI have issued an appeal for information and witnesses following an arson attack at a property in south Belfast. At approximately 10.20pm on Saturday, 13 April, police received a report of a fire at a house in the Kilburn Street area. Police attended the scene alongside the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.
11 April 2024
Over 40 Belfast Organisations Back 'Inclusive City' Initiative
More than forty organisations from across Belfast have backed an initiative designed to help create a 'better, more inclusive city'. The organisations have signed up to the Belfast Business Promise, embarking on their journey to become accredited and share good practice.