MEMBERS of the public grabbed a shoplifter who was making threats to a store manager in Alloa.

The thief was 24-year-old Adrian Nowak, of Hallpark, Sauchie.

He denies he had anything to do with the crime.

Nowak appeared for sentencing at Alloa Sheriff Court accompanied by a Polish translator.

He was previously found guilty after a trial.

On April 13 at Lidl, Clackmannan Road, Alloa, he stole food items and medication.

He also shouted, swore and made threats towards an employee.

He then resisted two police officers and struggled with them.

Defence solicitor Robert Smith said his client was still “in denial” about the offences.

“That’s in the face of incontrovertible evidence,” said Sheriff Neil Bowie.

He added: “This was aggressive behaviour towards the manager of the store who was trying to stop shoplifting. He felt significantly threatened.

“Three members of the public courageously became involved and detained him to await the arrival of the police.

“This is an escalation of his behaviour and if he continues on this path he’ll end up in prison.”

The trial heard from witnesses and saw CCTV evidence.

Sheriff Bowie imposed an eight-month restriction of liberty order.