Drunk shoplifter assaults security guard in Vienna supermarket theft attempt
A 49-year-old man was caught attempting to steal groceries from a supermarket in Vienna. The incident took place on Mariahilfer Straße in the Neubau district, where staff intervened after spotting the suspect concealing items. Police later confirmed the man had a blood alcohol level nearly six times the legal limit.
The suspect entered the store and hid several grocery items under his sweater and in his trouser pockets. As he tried to leave without paying, a security guard confronted him. The confrontation turned violent when the man knocked the 57-year-old guard to the ground and stomped on him.
A supermarket employee helped restrain the suspect until police arrived. Officers arrested the man, who later admitted to the attempted theft. Tests revealed his blood alcohol concentration was 2.74 per mille—far above the legal threshold. Prosecutors charged the 49-year-old with suspected attempted robbery-theft. Despite the seriousness of the offence, he was not taken into custody.
The suspect now faces legal proceedings for the attempted theft and assault. The security guard's injuries were not detailed in reports, but the incident highlights the risks staff face when confronting shoplifters. Authorities have not released further updates on the case.
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