Man Jailed for Bleach Attack at Lydd Kebab Shop
Andrew Maloney, 53, was sentenced to 16 months in prison at Canterbury Crown Court on Thursday, 19 May 2022. He pleaded guilty to possession of an offensive weapon, affray, and criminal damage following a shocking attack at a kebab shop in Lydd.
Corrosive Spray Chaos on Lydd High Street
The incident unfolded in the early hours of Saturday, 9 April 2022, when Maloney barged into the takeaway on the town’s 1 and quickly sparked an argument with staff and customers inside.
After being forcibly removed, Maloney sprayed a corrosive substance towards the group, causing one man severe pain to his face and eyes. Police quickly located Maloney nearby and recovered the bottle containing the bleach.
Abusive Arrest and Vehicle Damage
Maloney didn’t stop there. Upon arrest, he was verbally abusive to officers and kicked out at the gear stick inside the police car, damaging it.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service tested the sprayed substance, confirming it was sodium hypochlorite – a strong alkali.
Police Condemn Use of Corrosive Substances
“Use of corrosive substances to injure or threaten others is totally unacceptable and this case shows we will take action against those who do so,” said PC Sophia Lateu, Kent Police’s investigating officer.
“I am pleased the quick actions of officers on the night, and the swift investigation that followed, has led to this offender being jailed just over a month after these offences took place.”
