Coffee-Throwing Robber Convicted by Jury in 33 Minutes

An individual described as a “deplorable” robber has received a jail sentence after assaulting a victim by throwing coffee over them and then stealing their mobile phone during an incident in a city centre. According to police reports, Simon Quest, aged 37, pursued his victim on a bicycle before dousing him with coffee, which caused the individual to fall to the ground. This event occurred in Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester, on June 6. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) stated that Quest, who has no fixed address, was apprehended shortly thereafter. The police force further indicated that a search conducted subsequently by officers uncovered bolt cutters, Mercedes wheel locks, and a manbag. Following a two-day trial held at Bolton Crown Court, the jury deliberated for merely 33 minutes before reaching a verdict that found Quest guilty of robbery. He was subsequently sentenced to four years and six months in prison. Detective Constable James Hayes commented: “Quest has shown no remorse for his deplorable actions throughout the entire process, so we welcome this sentence.” He continued: “Our victim was left completely disoriented and was unable to defend himself and Quest took this opportunity to steal his phone.” Det Con Hayes further stated: “I’d like to thank members of the public who rushed to help the victim [and] also stayed at the scene to share witness statements with us. “Their assistance and continued support have been crucial to securing this conviction.” He also mentioned that GMP is “committed to making Piccadilly Gardens the safe and welcoming space we know it can be” and to decreasing crime and anti-social behaviour within that vicinity. Information regarding BBC Radio Manchester content on Sounds and BBC Manchester social media presence (Facebook, X, and Instagram) is available. Story ideas can be submitted to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk and via Whatsapp at 0808 100 2230. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Details regarding our policy on external linking are accessible.