Overview
- Natasha Smith, 38, pleaded guilty at the High Court in Edinburgh to culpable homicide over the June 30, 2024 death of security guard Alun Harris‑Richards at an Asda in Arbroath.
- Prosecutors said Harris‑Richards, 61, had undiagnosed coronary artery disease and suffered a heart attack brought on by the physical and emotional stress of the incident.
- The Crown removed an earlier allegation that Smith assaulted the deceased before accepting her plea to culpable homicide, with separate admissions to assault and threatening behaviour toward staff.
- Body‑worn camera footage and witness accounts showed Smith shouting, resisting, and later attacking an employee, Chloe Robinson, during and after the guard’s collapse.
- Lord Haldane adjourned sentencing for background reports, indicated a significant custodial sentence is expected, and remanded Smith in custody.