Tedros Menges, 22, of Holbrook Close in Enfield, was sentenced to 10 years in prison at Wood Green Crown Court on Friday, July 17, after being convicted of grievous bodily harm, non-fatal strangulation, attempted robbery, and threatening a person with an offensive weapon. The attack left two people injured.
Details of the Attack
Menges initially attempted to steal jogging bottoms from a shop but fled when spotted by staff. Realizing he had left his mobile phone behind, he returned to retrieve it. When staff refused to hand it over, he left again, only to return armed with a saw. He then attacked a security guard with the saw and strangled the store manager before fleeing.
Police Response and Arrest
Police arrived at the scene within two minutes of a panic alarm being triggered. After a short pursuit, Menges was arrested in Southbury Leisure Park. Chief Superintendent Anna McCartney, responsible for policing in North London including Enfield, said: "Violence and abuse directed at shopworkers has a real impact on victims, businesses and the wider community. Staff should never have to fear for their safety while doing their jobs."
Sentencing and Implications
Menges must serve at least two-thirds of his 10-year sentence in prison, followed by a three-year extended period on licence. The Metropolitan Police stated that this case highlights their continued focus on tackling shopworker abuse and retail-related violence through increased neighbourhood patrols and close work with businesses to identify and arrest harmful and prolific offenders.
