Sidcup pharmacy attacker gets 18-month community order

Curtis Bailey received an 18-month community order on September 18 at Woolwich Crown Court for assaults that occurred at Southcotts Pharmacy in Sidcup on February 2. The court heard that Bailey attacked staff and customers during what was described as a "temper tantrum."

Injuries sustained in pharmacy attack

During the incident, a 69-year-old pharmacy worker suffered a broken arm, and an 89-year-old customer sustained injuries. The prosecutor, Arizuna Asante, told the court that Bailey punched the pharmacy manager in the face, pushed a female staff member to the ground causing her arm to break, and shoved the elderly customer who attempted to de-escalate the situation. The pensioner suffered bruising and pain to his right hip. Another member of the public intervened and chased Bailey from the premises.

Guilty pleas and sentencing

Bailey, aged 33, pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm against the pensioner, and to assaulting two pharmacy workers. He also admitted a battery charge against his former partner. He had been held on remand since February, serving the equivalent of 15 months in custody. His defence counsel, Sasha Bailey, stated that her client acknowledged anger management issues and a cannabis addiction contributing to his behaviour. She noted he had remained drug-free in custody and was taking steps to address his offending.

Recorder Etherington KC, presiding over the sentencing, labelled the incident a "temper tantrum" and dismissed Bailey's claim of self-defence. The judge noted that Bailey's time spent on remand was a significant factor in the decision not to impose a prison sentence. Recorder Etherington KC stated that while many people grow out of such offending, continuing into one's 30s becomes "sad," and that prison could become Bailey's life if he did not change. The judge imposed the 18-month community order, which includes rehabilitation work.

Restraining order imposed

In addition to the community order, Bailey was issued a restraining order that will remain in effect until 2030. This order prohibits him from contacting his former partner, directly or indirectly. He is also banned from attending any address where he knows or suspects she lives or works, and from entering Southcotts Pharmacy.