Raymond Ward threatened to stab shop staff and looted stores in a spree before his arrest and jailing

A violent thief who terrorised Nottingham with a string of thefts, robberies, and burglaries has finally been locked up. Raymond Ward, 32, was sentenced to five years in prison after unleashing a relentless crime spree that gripped the city in fear over the festive period.

Ward’s rampage began just before Christmas and continued into early January. In a matter of weeks, he racked up an astonishing 15 shop thefts, two residential burglaries, and multiple counts of threatening behaviour—all committed with shocking boldness.

He wasn’t just stealing. When challenged by brave shopworkers, Ward escalated the encounters with chilling threats of violence. In two separate incidents, he threatened to stab staff members if they intervened, turning petty theft into terrifying confrontations.

The courts heard how Ward brazenly looted designer clothes, electronics, and high-value goods from various retailers, showing no regard for consequence or decency. He targeted multiple premises repeatedly, knowing full well the fear he left behind.

Nottinghamshire Crown Court handed down the five-year sentence this week, bringing long-awaited justice to victims and relief to shop owners across the city. Ward also received a Criminal Behaviour Order, banning him from entering key locations he once prowled.

Detective Constable Kirsty Allison, who led the investigation, welcomed the verdict. “Ward’s actions were not only criminal—they were aggressive and deeply unsettling for staff and residents alike. He terrorised hardworking people and showed no remorse.”

“This sentence reflects the severity of his crimes and the fear he instilled in the community. We’re glad to see him behind bars where he can’t continue his destructive path.”

Ward’s spree included not only commercial theft but two break-ins at residential properties. These burglaries added a sinister twist to an already disturbing pattern, raising alarm among residents during what should have been a peaceful holiday season.

The court was told that Ward frequently returned to previously targeted stores, undeterred by increased security or the emotional toll on staff. In some instances, he acted in broad daylight, confident in his ability to intimidate and escape.

His arrest followed a coordinated effort by Nottinghamshire Police, who tracked his movements and built a compelling case using CCTV footage, eyewitness accounts, and forensic evidence. Officers described him as a persistent threat with escalating tendencies.

The Criminal Behaviour Order now prevents Ward from stepping foot into several city centre and retail areas he once targeted. If he breaches this restriction after release, he risks an immediate return to prison.

Local businesses, already stretched by economic pressures and security concerns, expressed relief at Ward’s imprisonment. One store manager said, “It’s not just the loss of stock—it’s the constant fear of him coming back. We finally feel we can breathe again.”

Ward’s case also marks a turning point in how theft-related crimes are prosecuted. Under newer legislation, offences are no longer measured solely by item value but by their impact and the behaviour of the offender. Prosecutors pushed for the full weight of the law, and they got it.

His conviction sends a stark message: violence and intimidation in pursuit of theft will no longer be tolerated, regardless of the cost of what’s stolen. For Nottingham, Ward’s jailing symbolises a hard-fought return to safety for businesses and residents alike.