A security guard at an Asda superstore in Arbroath tragically passed away following an altercation with a shoplifter. Alun Harris-Richards, aged 61, suffered a heart attack and died after confronting Natasha Smith, 38, who was suspected of stealing alcohol at the Westbury Retail Park store.
Smith was sentenced to five years and four months in prison after pleading guilty to culpable homicide and an assault charge involving another Asda employee. During the incident, Smith engaged in a struggle with Mr. Harris-Richards and another staff member, leading to a confrontation captured on bodycam footage where she made threatening remarks.
Despite efforts from paramedics, staff, and customers performing CPR, Mr. Harris-Richards, a former Royal Marine, tragically passed away at the scene. A post-mortem examination later revealed that he had undiagnosed heart disease and died from a heart attack.
Moira Orr of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service condemned the attack, describing it as unprovoked and resulting in the loss of a beloved family man’s life. She emphasized the seriousness of such crimes and expressed condolences to Mr. Harris-Richards’ family and friends.
The conviction of Natasha Smith serves as a reminder of the gravity of such offenses and the commitment to seeking justice for victims.