Serial Shoplifter Admits Culpable Homicide After Security Guard's Death
A serial shoplifter whose aggressive behaviour caused a security guard to suffer a fatal heart attack has been told she faces a significant custodial sentence. Natasha Smith, 38, pleaded guilty to culpable homicide at the High Court in Edinburgh after the incident at an Asda store in Arbroath, Angus.
Fatal Confrontation at Westway Retail Park
The court heard that on June 30, 2024, former Royal Marine Alun Harris-Richards, 61, attempted to prevent Smith from leaving the supermarket with stolen alcohol. During the confrontation at the Westway Retail Park store, Smith became aggressive and threatening, shouting, swearing, and making false allegations against the security guard.
Prosecutor Adrian Stalker described how staff had become suspicious of Smith in the spirits aisle. After triggering security alarms at the exit, Mr Harris-Richards and another employee intercepted her, taking hold of a bag containing two bottles of alcohol that Smith refused to release.
Bodycam Footage Reveals Aggressive Behaviour
Footage from Mr Harris-Richards' bodycam was shown in court, capturing Smith shouting "You're not allowed to touch me" and "Get your f****** hands off me". She could be heard asking the victim, "Who do you think you are, f****** Hulk?" as she pulled at the bag containing alcohol she admitted planning to sell to a pub.
The charge stated that as a result of the physical and emotional stress caused by Smith's behaviour, Mr Harris-Richards - who had undiagnosed heart disease - sustained a heart attack, fell to the ground, struck his head and died at the scene.
Violent Aftermath and Additional Assault
After the security guard collapsed, Smith struggled with two female employees, grabbing Chloe Robinson and putting her hands around her neck while threatening: "I will end you." Staff managed to retrieve the stolen bag, but Smith continued her aggressive behaviour, punching Ms Robinson in the face and pulling her hair before leaving the store.
Smith also admitted assaulting and behaving in a threatening and abusive manner towards Ms Robinson under protection of workers legislation. Despite immediate first aid, CPR, and emergency medical treatment from staff, customers, and paramedics, Mr Harris-Richards could not be revived.
Criminal History and Sentencing
The court heard that Smith, a mother of one formerly of North Grimsby, Arbroath, has a criminal record for repeated shoplifting, theft, drugs, and assault offences in both Scotland and England, but has never previously served a jail sentence.
Lord Haldane told Smith that the only possible disposal for her offending was a significant custodial sentence. Sentencing was adjourned for reports, with Smith remanded in custody.
Police Condemn 'Unacceptable' Behaviour
Following the hearing, Detective Chief Inspector Craig Kelly stated: "Aggressive behaviour of this nature is completely unacceptable and can have devastating consequences, as this case has shown." The Crown had originally accused Smith of assaulting and pushing Mr Harris-Richards, but amended the charge to culpable homicide before her guilty plea.
