Man jailed for attempted robberies in East Grinstead

A man who threatened staff at a Post Office and caused criminal damage has been jailed.

Connor Gooderson brandished a metal pole and wine bottle during an attempted robbery in East Grinstead.

He smashed the glass bottle against the door of the shop in an attempt to re-enter.

Gooderson also threatened a 13-year-old boy with a fire extinguisher in a second attempted robbery.

When he was arrested, he tried to headbutt and bite an officer, and also spat at them.

The 23-year-old, of Cavendish Place, Eastbourne, was charged with two attempted robberies, criminal damage, and two assaults on emergency workers.

At Brighton Crown Court on 15 July he was jailed for two years and seven months after admitting the charges.

The court was told how the incidents happened on 30 May this year in the Post Office.

Gooderson barged into the shop and went to the toilet in a staff only area, emerging with a metal pole in one hand and a wine bottle in another.

He demanded staff to open the secure door and to hand over money, before leaving.

Concerned staff then had to keep a door closed and shutters down to protect worried customers when Gooderson tried to get back in.

He threw a wine bottle at the glass door, causing damage.

Outside, he threatened a boy who filmed his behaviour, and chased the boy into a KFC restaurant.

Gooderson demanded the boy hand over his mobile phone and pointed a fire extinguisher at the boy.

Police arrived and Gooderson remained abusive and uncooperative throughout.

He attempted to bite and heatbutt an officer while under arrest, and later spat at the officer.

Speaking after the case, Mid Sussex District Commander Chief Inspector Steve Turner said: “Gooderson’s behaviour was simply not acceptable.

“He caused concern to members of the public going about their business in East Grinstead and threatened staff.

“Officers remained patient with him, explaining the allegations made and the reason for his necessary arrest.

“They faced a volley of abuse and threats, as well Gooderson attempting to headbutt them, bite them, and spit at them.

“This case demonstrates our determination to work with businesses to cut out abuse of retail staff. It should not be seen as part of the job.

“Nor should it be simply seen as part of the job for police officers to respond to this abuse.

“I’m pleased the seriousness of Gooderson’s behaviour has been reflected in court, and he is now serving a custodial sentence.”