Hatton Garden raid: Brian Reader sentenced to six years for role in jewellery heist

More than £14 million worth of jewellery was stolen in the raid

Brian Reader was allegedly left for two days without care after falling inside Belmarsh jail (PA)

The man believed to be the 'mastermind' of the Hatton Garden raids, Brian Reader, has been sentenced to six years and three months in jail.

Aged 77, he was the oldest member of the gang, who stole more than £14 million worth of valuables in one of the most audacious raids on record.

Appearing by videolink in court today, was sentenced after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit burglary.

Mr Reader suffered a stroke in Belmarsh Prison following his arrest and now walks with a walking frame.

Five other men were sentenced for their role in the raid earlier this month.

Addressing the court today as he sentenced Mr Reader, Judge Christopher Kinch said that when deciding his punishment he had taken into consideration that Mr Reader is "seriously unwell" and has a range of health issues which are "potentially very serious indeed"; requiring him to need assistance for routine tasks. However, he said that he had to take into account Mr Reader's prominent role in the raid and said: "I'm satisfied that you were rightly described as one of the ringleaders and involved in regular meetings."

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