Well, judging by what was alluded to in the programme this wasn't a one off robbery/burglary, but a menacing gang who committed lots of robberies and associated assaults for good measure, plus seemingly at least one of them was at the very least threatening people with a meat cleaver, if not actually inflicting injury.
I'll admit I was surprised at the length of the sentencing, especially given they both pleaded guilty, but clearly these people are not your opportunistic house burglar who legs it if he/she is disturbed or your mugger trying to grab your handbag and running off, their whole attitude and demeanour on the programme was disturbing (if they're like that in a police station imagine what they're like when they're out with their mates giving it the big I am) and all things considered I felt the sentences were entirely appropriate.
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