A suspected shoplifter who allegedly threatened to give a shop worker coronavirus by coughing on them has been charged.

Erica Horvathova, of Milroy Avenue, Northfleet, was arrested yesterday and later charged with assault and theft after an incident at the Co-op store in Perry Street, Gravesend.

The 31-year-old was confronted by a member of staff on April 13 over suspicions she was trying to steal a number of items.

She is then said to have warned the shop worker she had the Covid-19 virus and would cough on him if he approached her, before leaving the store without paying for the items.

Horvathova has been bailed to appear at Medway Magistrates' Court on June 23.

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