A 30-year-old man from Carryduff has been sentenced to four years and four months for an armed robbery at a KFC in Belfast. Ryan Johnston, residing at Millburn Close, was handed the sentence at Belfast Crown Court for a “shocking” incident that occurred on May 5, 2023.
The court heard that Johnston, who was living at Knockbracken Hospital at the time, entered the KFC outlet on Saintfield Road armed with a knife. He brandished the weapon and demanded cash, causing panic among the staff.
The prosecutor detailed how Johnston jumped over the counter and entered the kitchen, forcing one employee to escape through the drive-through window and another to flee to his car. CCTV footage showed a team leader attempting to calm Johnston before being compelled to hand over cash from the tills and a safe.
After the robbery, Johnston was followed by customers in their cars as he returned to the hospital grounds.
In his defense, Johnston’s barrister highlighted his long history of severe mental health issues, including paranoid schizophrenia and a personality disorder, which had led to multiple hospitalizations. The defense also noted Johnston’s substance abuse, particularly cocaine, which had exacerbated his mental health struggles.
Johnston, who has 40 prior convictions, pleaded guilty to the robbery and expressed remorse for his actions, describing himself as “disgusted and ashamed.”
Judge Patricia Smyth, who reviewed the CCTV footage, described the incident as “shocking” and acknowledged the long-term impact it had on the KFC staff. She emphasized Johnston’s complex psychiatric history and his difficulty living in the community.
Before Johnston’s release from prison, the Parole Commissioners are required to ensure that appropriate accommodation is available to meet his specific needs.