Violent shoplifter who threatened worker in Sittingbourne with a knife jailed
The attack happened after he tried to take four cans of larger without paying
A violent and abusive shoplifter has been jailed after he was detained following an incident in Sittingbourne.
On Sunday 6 April 2025, Connor Openshaw went to the Co-op in Gadby Road and selected four cans of beer before trying to leave without paying.
A member of staff intervened and took hold of the beer. Openshaw then pushed him and left the premises grabbing several packets of crisps. The victim followed him and was assaulted with a glass bottle which smashed on his arm causing a cut. Openshaw racially abused him and then left.
He then returned and threatened the victim with a knife and smashed the shop window with a wooden plank. Openshaw left the area but was tracked down by a local constable and arrested.
Court Appearance
He was charged by investigators and remanded in custody. On Thursday 29 May, the 23-year-old pleaded guilty at Medway Magistrates’ Court to theft, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, criminal damage, possessing a knife in a public place and a public order offence. Openshaw, of no fixed address, was immediately sentenced to six months’ imprisonment. He was also ordered to pay the victim £100 in compensation.
Investigating officer, PC Dan Quinn, said: ‘Openshaw is an offensive individual whose conduct in the Co-op was truly appalling. Shop workers should not have to suffer violence and abuse, and offenders should expect a robust response from Kent Police.
‘His possession of a knife was a major factor in his sentencing and those who choose to follow his example will receive a prompt arrest and court appearance.'