Customer demanded free alcohol...then attacked store staff

[dutchman]

A shop customer is caught on camera moments before demanding free alcohol – and then assaulting a staff member and smashing up a display when his request was refused.

The man – described as a Middle Eastern male – approached the counter at Coventry convenience store Charlie & Co in Alfall Road, Stoke, and asked the cashier for booze on the house.

In frustration at being turned away he hurled an energy drink at a display cabinet, shattering several bottles of spirits, before assaulting the shop assistant who tried to restrain him.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Toni Rossi from Coventry Force CID, said: “He lashed out at the staff member and then went behind the counter to steal the alcohol he’d demanded for free whilst making threats at the same time. Thankfully the victim wasn’t seriously hurt but given the violent reaction he could easily have been injured.

“The man is pictured on CCTV standing at the counter in a white tracksuit top and I’d urge anyone who believes they recognise him, or have seen him, to contact us."

The offender is described as a Middle Eastern male in his late 20s, around 5ft 7ins tall, slim build, and with short black hair; he spoke Kurdish throughout the altercation.

The incident happened at around 9.15pm on March 24.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Coventry Police Force CID on the 101 number or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.