Asda Shoplifter Receives Five-Year Sentence for Fatal Confrontation with Security Guard
A shoplifter has been sentenced to five years and four months in prison after a violent altercation led to the death of a former Royal Marine security guard at a Scottish supermarket. Natasha Smith pleaded guilty to culpable homicide and assault following the incident at an Asda store in Angus on June 30, 2024.
Fatal Tussle Over Stolen Alcohol
The confrontation occurred when Alun Harris-Richards, a 61-year-old security guard, attempted to stop Smith from stealing alcohol. Body camera footage captured the struggle, showing the pair grappling over a bag filled with stolen booze. During the altercation, Smith shouted aggressive remarks, including 'You're not allowed to touch me. Get your f***ing hands off me' and 'Who do you think you are, f***ing Hulk?'
The physical struggle triggered a fatal heart attack in Harris-Richards, who had an undiagnosed heart condition. He fell to the ground, struck his head, and despite immediate CPR efforts by paramedics and store staff, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Court Sentencing and Judicial Remarks
At the High Court in Edinburgh, Lady Haldane delivered the sentence, stating that Smith's actions 'set in train a series of events that ultimately had devastating consequences for Alun Harris-Richards, his family and all who knew and loved him.' The judge acknowledged that Smith did not intend the outcome but emphasized her responsibility, noting that Harris-Richards 'would not have lost his life in the way that he did without your actions.'
Victim impact statements described Harris-Richards as a 'much-loved member of the family,' with his loss profoundly affecting relatives. The court heard that Smith, appearing via videolink from prison, has previous convictions for drug offences and was struggling with alcohol addiction at the time of the incident.
Defence and Prosecution Statements
Defence lawyer Kris Gilmartin stated that Smith feels 'deep remorse' and accepts that her actions left a 'hole that cannot be filled' for the victim's family. He explained that Smith was 'desperate' and addicted to alcohol, trying to pull the bag away without intending harm, but must live with the consequences.
Moira Orr of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service called it an 'unprovoked attack on a man who was simply doing his job,' warning that such crimes are taken extremely seriously. She expressed condolences to Harris-Richards' family, stating the conviction serves as a deterrent.
