NEWPORT, ISLE OF WIGHT – A violent incident at a Morrisons supermarket on the Isle of Wight led to the arrest and imprisonment of a man who assaulted staff and a customer. Steven Yeo, of Park Road, Ryde, appeared in front of Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court for charges including assaulting the store manager, shoplifting, and possession of illegal items such as a knuckleduster and cannabis.
The altercation occurred on February 7th when Yeo became extremely violent, attacking the store manager and a member of the public, as well as resisting arrest by police officers. According to the prosecutor, Lauren Stone, Yeo was apprehended with the help of a security guard and other shoppers who intervened to restrain him.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Yeo had a criminal record with seven convictions for 15 offenses between 2019-23. Despite a previously suspended jail term, he engaged in further criminal activities, which ultimately led to his imprisonment for 12 weeks. Additionally, Yeo was ordered to pay a £200 fine, an £80 surcharge, and £50 in compensation to his two victims.
Yeo’s defense lawyer, Oscar Vincent, mentioned that his client struggled with mental health issues and had successfully abstained from alcohol for 14 months until a recent relationship breakdown triggered a drinking relapse. Vincent stated that Yeo’s actions were a result of a mental breakdown and urged the court to consider this while delivering the verdict.
The incident at Morrisons in Newport resulted in the recovery of all stolen goods, valued at £217.96, and highlighted the potential consequences of alcohol abuse and its impact on individuals with mental health issues. The magistrates’ decision underscored the importance of accountability and the need to address underlying issues, even in cases involving criminal behavior.