Knife-Wielding Thief Locked Up
Michael Thormann, 31, sparked terror after assaulting two shop workers and threatening one with a knife. The Swanscombe man also smashed a glass screen during his spree.
Multiple Crimes Caught on CCTV
On December 5, at a Stone store on Hillhouse Road, Thormann was caught on camera stuffing four cans of cider into his coat. He then pocketed a cola can. When confronted by staff, he claimed he would pay but then tried to buy an energy drink. When his card was declined, he punched the cashier’s screen.
He then lunged behind the till and attacked a worker before being dragged away by bystanders. Thormann left with the stolen alcohol and an extra pack of cigarettes.
Knife Threat at Greenhithe Service Station
The next night, Thormann loitered in a Greenhithe service station on London Road before storming out without paying. A staff member chased him outside, only to be pushed to the floor and threatened with a knife as Thormann demanded their phone. A passerby who tried to help was also threatened, forcing the thug to flee.
Justice Served at Woolwich Crown Court
Thormann was arrested the following evening and charged with robbery, attempted robbery, actual bodily harm, theft, criminal damage, and threatening with a knife. He was remanded in custody.
On April 9, 2021, Woolwich Crown Court sentenced him to five years and three months behind bars.
“Thormann’s actions caused considerable distress to innocent victims and such behaviour cannot go unchallenged,” said PC Ben Slocombe, lead investigator. “His imprisonment is entirely justified.”
