Jail for man who staged abduction to raid Kirkcaldy bank

Andrew Patrick was sentenced at the High Court in Glasgow.

Patrick (40) had pleaded guilty to abduction, assault and robbery at the Bank of Scotland branch next to Asda at Carberry Place, Kirkcaldy on November 11, 2015.

He had called a taxi to Lochgelly to take him to the bank, and as it approached the premises, the 46-year-old taxi driver was given a holdall containing what was he was told was an explosive device.

He was forced to enter the bank and present a note to staff that demanded that money be delivered into the holdall.

Patrick left the scene before the taxi driver exited the bank, and officers swiftly attended.

The alleged explosive device was later found to pose no risk to the public.

Patrick was traced on December 3 and arrested and charged on December 4, 2015.

Detective Sergeant Graeme Dursley of Kirkcaldy CID said: “This was a terrifying ordeal for the taxi driver and members of staff at the bank, especially given the threat of an alleged explosive device, who must be commended for their bravery throughout the ordeal last November.

“I want to praise the taxi driver and the bank staff for their courage and their assistance during our investigation.

“The business premises around the bank deserve our thanks too for providing us with vital CCTV footage as well as the wider community of Kirkcaldy for their continued support of this investigation.

“Officers responded quickly to ensure the safety of local residents, utilising EOD resources to ensure there was no threat posed by the device.

“It is also a testament to the extensive inquiries carried out by the investigation team to identify Patrick as the assailant that he will now spend a significant period of time in jail.”