CCTV Captures Knife-Wielding Woman's Terrifying Rampage in Newcastle Shop
Shocking CCTV footage has been released by police, showing the moment a woman armed with a knife launched a violent rampage in a local shop in Newcastle, causing staff and customers to flee in panic. Tequilla King, 25, from Harlow Place, Heaton, Newcastle, was sentenced to 16 months in prison for her frightening actions, which included threatening to stab the manager and causing extensive damage to the premises.
Details of the Terrifying Incident
The incident occurred on August 13 last year at the Premier shop on Newton Road in Heaton, Newcastle. King, who had previously been banned from the store, was asked to leave by staff. In response, she became aggressive, swearing at employees before pulling out a knife. The CCTV footage, now made public, captures the chaotic scene as staff and members of the public quickly evacuated the shop to escape the danger.
The manager, however, remained inside, taking refuge behind the Post Office till while calling the police. Recorder Nathan Moxon, sentencing King at Newcastle Crown Court, described how she made repeated threats to stab the manager and began smashing up the shop, damaging parcels that were awaiting collection from customers. He noted that King swiped the knife at the manager as he tried to protect the till, coming extremely close to causing serious injury.
Police Response and Aftermath
Police arrived at the scene eight minutes after being called, but even after her arrest, King continued to make threats to stab the manager. In a victim impact statement, a female staff member expressed that she no longer feels safe working alone at the shop and was deeply concerned for the manager's safety. Recorder Moxon emphasized the terror of the incident, stating that most people ran out of the shop in fear, and the manager sought safety behind a glass screen.
King, who has 21 previous convictions including two for carrying a knife, pleaded guilty to threatening with a bladed article, affray, and criminal damage. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that she claimed her actions were a deliberate attempt to get arrested. Her barrister explained that she had missed an appointment to receive an injection of medication that morning and had been unable to contact her healthcare providers or a crisis team, leading to a deterioration in her mental health. He described her actions as impulsive and expressed her remorse and regret for the offence.
Broader Implications and Sentencing
This case highlights ongoing concerns about knife crime and public safety in retail environments. The release of the CCTV footage aims to raise awareness and deter similar incidents. King's sentencing to 16 months in jail reflects the severity of her actions, which Recorder Moxon called a terrifying experience for everyone involved. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by shop workers and the importance of mental health support in preventing such violent outbursts.
