Man Jailed for Displaying Imitation Firearm and Drug Possession in Lidl Incident

Marcin Raczak, a 28-year-old resident of Harford Street, Trowbridge, has been sentenced to nine months in prison following a series of alarming incidents involving an imitation firearm and illegal drugs. The sentencing took place on August 15 at Swindon Magistrates’ Court after Raczak pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including possession of an offensive weapon, possession of Class A drugs, possession of an imitation firearm, and theft.

The initial episode occurred on February 13 at approximately 4:25 pm when police were alerted to reports that two men, heavily intoxicated, brandished a firearm inside the Lidl store on Warminster. The individuals were confronted after attempting to steal alcohol. According to witnesses, members of the public intervened bravely, disarming the men and securing the weapon, which was later confirmed to have been stolen that very day from Salisbury Antiques Market on Catherine Street.

In a related incident on July 4 around 4:20 pm, officers responded to Fore Street, Trowbridge, after reports of a man threatening people with a metal pole. Upon arresting Raczak, police discovered two large foil-wrapped packages containing amphetamine in his possession.

For these serious offenses, Raczak received a nine-month sentence for possessing an imitation firearm and a concurrent three-month sentence for possession of an offensive weapon. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £445 in compensation for theft.

Acting Sergeant Liam Rodrigues-Wilkins commented on the case: “These incidents were deeply unsettling for the victims and the wider community. The events will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on residents of Warminster and Trowbridge, especially those who witnessed the frightening scenes. We encourage anyone who has information about individuals carrying weapons or imitation weapons in public to come forward or report anonymously through Crimestoppers.”