Video shows a JCB uprooting a postbox as it smashes into a village shop during a ramraid. <br /><br />Footage captures the moment the stolen digger crashed into the Coo-op storefront.<br /><br />Alfie Smith, from Ashford, Middlesex, was later arrested during the early hours of July 4 .<br /><br />Two other suspects were able to escape the scene where the team had planned to remove a cash ATM from the store.<br /><br />Smith was later charged with intent to steal and aggravated taking of a motor vehicle without the owner’s consent.<br /><br />Smith pleaded guilty to both offences and was sentenced to six years’ imprisonment at Lewes Crown Court.<br /><br />He had been on temporary release from prison when the crime took place, where he was serving a 14-year sentence.<br /><br />Alongside his six year sentence, he will also serve the remaining 10 years of his previous sentence as a result.<br /><br />Investigating Officer Sam Doyle, of West Sussex CID, said: “This footage shows the clear intent by Smith and his associates to steal an ATM from a village store, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage in the process. <br /><br />"They had clearly prepared for this operation in advance, but they hadn’t prepared for police to respond so quickly.<br /><br />“I’d like to thank the numerous victims, witnesses and companies who provided statements and CCTV, which gave us vital evidence to secure Smith’s conviction.<br /><br />“I’d also like to extend my gratitude to the dedicated staff and officers who have been involved from the start of this fast-moving and multi-department investigation.<br /><br />“I acknowledge the significant impact this incident would have had on residents in this small and quiet village, as well as the businesses that suffered financially.”<br /><br />A 37-year-old man from Aldershot in Hampshire was later arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit burglary and has been bailed until 5 October as the investigation continues.<br /><br />Anyone with any information that could assist police in their investigation is asked to report it online or call 101, quoting Op Milson.<br /><br />You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report it online.
