CCTV footage has revealed the bold actions of a thief who vandalized arcade machines in a bowling alley to steal coins. Damien Rigby, a resident of Wigan, has been arrested for a series of crimes at Superbowl venues in Warrington and Widnes, causing over £4,000 in damages.
During three separate incidents at Superbowl UK in Golden Square Shopping Centre, Rigby was caught on camera damaging and stealing from arcade machines while the establishment was open to the public. The first incident occurred on May 19 in Warrington, where he stole £273 from two machines and caused £1,195 in damages.
Rigby struck again on July 15 at the same Warrington location, stealing £309.50 and causing £1,045 in damages. His third visit on August 14 resulted in the theft of £178.30 and £1,485 in damages. Shortly after, on August 25, Rigby targeted a Superbowl UK in Widnes, stealing £95.20 and causing £905 in damages.
Following his identification through CCTV footage, Rigby was arrested on September 30 and charged with multiple counts of theft and criminal damage. He pleaded guilty in court and was sentenced to six months in jail, as well as being ordered to pay nearly £5,500 in compensation for the stolen money and damages.
Inspector Lee Hillyard of Cheshire Police commended the sentence, stating that Rigby’s actions showed a blatant disregard for others and the property he targeted. He emphasized that the CCTV evidence played a crucial role in securing a guilty plea from Rigby and highlighted that crime does not pay in the end. The inspector also expressed satisfaction that Rigby would have to repay the stolen money and repair costs for the arcade machines he damaged.
This case serves as a reminder of the consequences of criminal behavior and the importance of surveillance systems in deterring and capturing offenders. It also underscores the commitment of law enforcement to hold individuals accountable for their actions and ensure that justice is served. Rigby’s actions may have been brazen, but ultimately, he faced the consequences of his choices.