Two men have been convicted after breaking into a Morrisons Daily store in New Ash Green using crowbars. Patrol officers responded swiftly to the scene, arresting the pair shortly after the incident was reported.
Callum Knox, 38, and Damien Smith, 44, both from Southampton, pleaded guilty to burglary at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, November 23, 2024. Knox also admitted to assaulting an emergency worker after injuring a police officer with a crowbar during the arrest.
Break-In and Arrest
Kent Police received a report just before 2:20 a.m. on Friday, November 22, 2024, regarding a break-in at the store located in The Row. The pair initially attempted to enter through the rear of the premises around 1:40 a.m. but returned later to force entry through the front door. Once inside, they attempted to steal cigarettes from a locked cabinet.
Officers arrived within minutes of the 999 call, apprehending both offenders. During the arrest, Knox assaulted an officer with a crowbar in an effort to escape. The officer sustained injuries and was transported to the hospital for treatment.
Court Proceedings
Knox, of Avon Road, and Smith, of Bullar Road, were charged with burglary and convicted in court the following day. Both men have been remanded in custody and await sentencing at Maidstone Crown Court on a date yet to be determined.
Police Statement
Detective Constable Joanna Slevin, who led the investigation, condemned the actions of the two men.
“Knox and Smith acted without care and caused considerable damage to the premises in their efforts to gain entry and steal from the business. Furthermore, Knox demonstrated a propensity for violence after striking a police officer with a crowbar in a bid to evade detention.
I hope the swift justice achieved by Kent Police serves as yet another reminder to would-be perpetrators that crime does not pay.”
Further Action
The case highlights the dangers faced by emergency workers responding to criminal incidents and the swift response by law enforcement in protecting businesses and the community. Sentencing at Maidstone Crown Court will determine the penalties for Knox and Smith, reflecting the severity of their offences.
