A masked man with a knife robbed a Lidl in Cardiff, stealing cash while shoppers filmed. He was later found with cocaine.
Leon Carpin, 34, went to Lidl in Cardiff around 1:15 p.m. on November 9. The store had many customers then. Carpin wore a mask and acted strangely, which the staff noticed.
Carpin whispered to a cashier and told the teller to open the till. Carpin had a knife, so the cashier stepped back and alerted the other staff to the issue.
The robber leaned over the till holding the four-inch knife. A customer filmed him, and CCTV also recorded the robbery. He said, “Just open it mate,” took the money, and then left, also saying, “Brave man eh?”.
The cashier felt frightened, and customers were shaking, scared during the robbery. Police identified Carpin and found him hiding at his parents’ home in the attic. Police also found 1.6g of cocaine at his home.
On November 7, Carpin stole a car and broke a restraining order. His ex-partner received texts and messages, and he went to her home. He used others’ social media, making her feel worried and unable to sleep well.
Carpin admitted to robbery, theft, and breaking the order. He had prior convictions involving robbery, theft, vehicle, and property crimes.
Carpin’s lawyer spoke about his past, stating adverse childhood experiences affected him. He also has mental health problems, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The lawyer stated Carpin wants a better life and to connect with his son again.
The judge said Carpin planned the crime and intimidated people there. The judge said he endangers others, and drug use and disrespect drive this behavior.
Carpin received five and a half years in prison. A restraining order will always be in place.