Two Men Nabbed After Crowbar Raid at Morrisons Daily
Two Southampton men have been caught red-handed after smashing their way into a Morrisons Daily store in New Ash Green using crowbars. Patrol officers swooped in quickly, arresting them shortly after the break-in.
Break-In Goes Wrong
Callum Knox, 38, and Damien Smith, 44, pleaded guilty to burglary at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, November 23, 2024. The pair first tried sneaking in through the back at 1:40 a.m., but returned to force open the front door later that night. Their target? Cigarettes locked away in a cabinet.
Police were called just before 2:20 a.m., and officers arrived within minutes. During the arrest, Knox swung a crowbar, injuring a police officer and trying to make a dangerous escape.
Court Drama and Charges
Both men, Knox from Avon Road and Smith from Bullar Road, were charged and convicted the very next day. Knox also faced charges for assaulting an emergency worker. They have been remanded in custody and await sentencing at Maidstone Crown Court, with dates yet to be confirmed.
Police Speak Out
“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,” said Detective Constable Joanna Slevin.
“I hope the swift justice achieved by Kent Police serves as yet another reminder to would-be perpetrators that crime does not pay.”
Emergency Workers at Risk
This incident highlights the dangers emergency workers face when responding to crimes. The prompt police action protected local businesses and the community. Sentencing at Maidstone Crown Court will reflect the seriousness of Knox and Smith’s offences.
