Man threatened postman during attempted robbery

A man who threatened a postman has been found guilty of attempted robbery.

Thomas Lawton had already admitted multiple other assaults, including on an emergency worker, and criminal damage after the incidents in Malmesbury on 2 August 2025.

A jury found the 49-year-old not guilty of sexual assault and not guilty of three counts of threatening someone with an offensive weapon on Thursday following a trial at Salisbury Crown Court.

PC Hannah East from Wiltshire Police said Lawton's behaviour and demeanour that day left the postman "feeling frightened that he may cause serious harm to him".

The court was told how the postal worker was delivering parcels outside The Light in Bristol Street when he was approached and threatened by Lawton, who attempted to open the van door.

Lawton later demanded the Royal Mail worker hand over his phone and keys.

Lawton, of High Street in Malmesbury, then made threats of violence towards the postman before chasing the victim as he ran away. The postman was eventually able to run back to the safety of his van.

East said it was fortunate that the victim was able to get away "before the situation escalated further".

"This incident happened during a sunny weekend in August, and I know it attracted a lot of attention from residents nearby as well as wider members of the community in Malmesbury," she said.

East thanked the multiple witnesses who had assisted the police with their enquiries and subsequently ensured Lawton "was put before the courts".

Lawton previously pleaded guilty to assault by beating, two counts of criminal damage and two counts of assault on an emergency worker, which happened in a separate incident on the same day.

He is due to be sentenced for all offences on 15 April.

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