Judge’s fury at bailed robber’s crime spree

A JUDGE said he was ‘speechless’ after an armed robber was released on bail, allowing him to carry out a string of other raids.

Aaron Fielding, 33, and an accomplice used a sledgehammer to burst into a couple’s home in Wythenshawe, Manchester, last May, before stealing their van. He was caught an hour later by police but bailed pending further inquiries.

Within three weeks, Fielding, pictured, carried out four more raids in one night armed with a knife or screwdriver in the same area. Jailing him for seven years at Manchester Crown Court, Judge Patrick Field QC said what happened was ‘remarkable’, adding: ‘I am tempted to say that an explanation should be given, but I expect that might take up too many resources.’

Fielding, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to one count of robbery and two counts of aggravated vehicle taking.