Knife-Wielding Thug Snared After Botched Shop Robbery in Goudhurst
Shop Attack Ends in Bloody Struggle
A violent criminal who held up a Goudhurst shop with a knife has been locked up for over four years. On 18 February 2020, Robert Plowman stormed into a High Street store where a lone shop assistant was on duty.
He grabbed the employee by the neck and demanded cash. When the terrified victim claimed he didn’t know how to open the till, the thug launched a brutal attack. A desperate fight ensued, with Plowman threatening to kill and stabbing the shopkeeper in the neck and abdomen, leaving painful puncture wounds. Despite the violence, Plowman fled empty-handed.
CCTV Pinpoints Offender, Quick Arrest Follows
The police swooped after reviewing CCTV footage and local tip-offs identified Plowman as the culprit. Officers caught him later that day on Station Road, Paddock Wood, still wearing the same clothes from the robbery.
The 29-year-old, formerly of Crittenden Road, Matfield, faced charges for attempted robbery and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.
Four Years Behind Bars for Violent Offender
Plowman pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court and was sentenced on 30 April to four years and two months in prison.
PC Lily MacKay, the lead investigator, slammed Plowman’s violent actions, saying: “This shopkeeper was working on his own and subjected to a terrifying ordeal. Plowman is a violent offender who failed to steal any cash but still inflicted injuries on his victim.”
She added: “I want to thank the brave victim and witnesses who helped us bring this dangerous man to justice.”
