Men Jailed Following Stabbing and Assault at Launceston Asda Express

Two men have been jailed after a member of the public was stabbed while trying to step in during a shoplifting and assault at a Launceston petrol station.

The incident happened at Asda Express in Launceston at around 11.25pm on 2nd July 2024.

Court Hearing in Truro

Casey Foster, 22, of St Catherine’s Hill, Launceston, and Royston Morgan, 23, a serving prisoner, appeared at Truro Crown Court for sentence on Thursday 26th February.

Casey had previously pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Royston pleaded guilty to theft and two charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Casey was jailed for 45 months. Royston was jailed for 12 months.

What Happened at the Petrol Station

At the sentencing hearing, the court heard that shortly before midnight on 2nd July 2024, Casey and Royston entered the petrol station.

Once inside, Royston picked up a crate of 12 beers worth £10 and left the store without attempting to pay.

An employee working behind the till challenged them. A member of the public at the petrol station, having realised a theft had taken place, tried to intervene.

Casey and Royston then attacked the member of the public, throwing numerous punches at him.

When the employee attempted to defend the member of the public, he was struck to the head and fell to the ground on the forecourt. The fall caused a large cut to his ear which bled heavily.

The court heard that Casey then pulled out a large blade and stabbed the member of the public several times in the arm and head.

Despite his injuries, the stabbing victim managed to get home before being taken to Royal Cornwall Hospital for treatment. Fortunately, neither victim sustained any major injuries.

All of the offences were captured on CCTV and both men were later arrested.

Police Response

Detective Constable Isle Ferguson, the officer in the case, said:

“Casey Foster and Royston Morgan carried out brutal assaults on two entirely innocent victims – one of whom was simply trying to do his job at a place he should have felt safe.

“The other victim was attempting to prevent a theft taking place.

“It is a matter of good fortune that neither victim suffered more serious injury, but this incident will still have no doubt been terrifying for them both.

“Whenever the decision is taken to carry and then brandish a knife, there is a chance of death. Such violence has no place in our society.”