Four Teens Nabbed After Violent Co-Op Shoplifting Spree in Barnham
Masked youths caught after attack on shop staff
Four teenagers were arrested after a brazen theft and assault at the Co-Op on Barnham Road last Thursday evening. Police rushed to the scene at 5.44pm following reports that a gang of youths was stealing items.
When a staff member challenged one of the teens, he was shoved and punched, left bleeding from the face. The perpetrators then fled — two sprinted across open fields with cops in hot pursuit for nearly a mile.
Swift police chase leads to arrests
Officers caught the field runners and hauled them in. The remaining two suspects returned to the store and were arrested on the spot. These four teenagers, aged 14 to 16, have now been charged or released under investigation.
- A 16-year-old boy from Bishopstoke faces charges of assault by beating, criminal damage, and theft. He’s been granted conditional bail with a court hearing set for 8 May at Worthing Youth Court.
- A 15-year-old boy from Emsworth was arrested for assault. He has since written an apology letter, received a community resolution, and been banned from the Co-Op.
- A 16-year-old boy from Havant and a 14-year-old girl from Worthing were released with no further action.
Police slam “totally unacceptable” violence
“Anyone who thinks they can freely enter a shop and take items without attempting to pay for them can think again. This behaviour is totally unacceptable,” said Chief Inspector Will Keating-Jones.
“Our officers relentlessly pursued two of the suspects across fields in the dark to ensure they were caught and arrested.”
He also hailed the courage of the store worker and a member of the public who stepped in during the incident. “Such violence and theft will not be tolerated in our communities,” he added.
