[A] VIOLENT shoplifter who threatened staff at a Carlisle grocery store has been locked up for 16 months.
Brian Anthony James Harold, 35, was seen to pinch a bottle of wine from the Foreways outlet, Newlaithes Avenue, on the evening of December 5. A mother and son were working there at the time.
Carlisle Crown Court heard that when challenged, Harold grabbed the bottle by its neck, held it above his head and yelled: “I am going to smash your head in.”
Harold used no violence but took the wine and stole four coffee jars as he left the shop. He was recognised on CCTV and later arrested.
After admitting two theft charges and affray, heavily-convicted Harold, of Westriggs Road, Carlisle, was sentenced today (THURS).
The court heard he was “remorseful” and wished to apologise for his criminal conduct.
Harold was jailed by Judge Barbara Forrester, who said of his weapon-wielding: “The only good thing I can say is that you didn’t use it.”
