Malmesbury man found guilty of attempted robbery
Thomas Lawton was found guilty following a trial at Salisbury Crown Court.
A man has been found guilty of attempted robbery after an incident which took place in Malmesbury last summer.
49-year-old Thomas Lawton was found guilty at Salisbury Crown Court on February the 12th following a trial.
On the 2nd of August last year, a postman had parked his Royal Mail van outside The Light on Bristol Street and was delivering parcels when Lawton approached the vehicle. When he attempted to open the van door, the postman challenged him. Lawton then demanded that he hand over his phone and keys.
The postman ran after Lawton made threats of violence towards him. He then chased the postman, who was eventually able to get back to his van.
Police Con Hannah East of Central CID said: “Lawton’s behaviour and demeanour left his victim feeling frightened that he may cause serious harm to him. It is fortunate that the victim, who was just trying to carry out his daily rounds, was able to get away from Lawton and into his van before the situation escalated further."
“This incident happened during a sunny weekend in August, and I know it attracted a lot of attention from residents nearby as well as wider members of the community in Malmesbury. I am grateful to the multiple witnesses who have assisted our enquiries to help piece together the series of events on that day and subsequently ensure Lawton was put before the courts.”
Lawton has been remanded in custody and will be sentenced on the 15th of April.