Black Belt Justice: Woman’s Karate Skills Stop Armed Robber

The tranquil atmosphere of a local convenience store in Telford, Shropshire, was shattered on March 3, 2023, when a masked robber attempted to intimidate and steal from the LOCO Convenience Store. However, the would-be thief encountered an unexpected adversary in the form of Mairi Kerin, a 42-year-old customer with a formidable martial arts background. The incident, captured on dramatic CCTV footage, has since gone viral, showcasing Kerin’s swift and decisive actions that thwarted the robbery and earned her a Police Chief Superintendent Commendation Award.

Kerin, a medal-winning Wadokai karate enthusiast, proficient in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and boxing, was simply purchasing chocolates for her nieces when the masked man entered the store and began threatening the shopkeeper. Initially, Kerin had noticed the suspicious individual outside, clad in concealing attire, and instinctively felt something was amiss. However, she dismissed her initial judgment, attempting to rationalize the stranger’s appearance.

Moments later, the same individual entered the store, his intentions becoming immediately clear. Kerin overheard the man’s chillingly calm declaration to the shopkeeper, “I’m going to take your money.” With her phone and keys safely stowed away, Kerin prepared to intervene. Observing the robber’s bulging pockets, she suspected he was armed and knew that hesitation could be fatal.

Without a moment’s delay, Kerin seized the opportunity. She grabbed the robber’s arm and delivered two powerful kicks to his shins, forcing him to retreat. The CCTV footage vividly displays Kerin’s assertive pursuit as she chased the fleeing criminal from the store, leaving the shopkeeper in stunned disbelief.

In a subsequent interview, Kerin revealed the underlying factors that contributed to her seemingly nonchalant demeanor after the confrontation. She was wearing new high heels, attempting to break them in for a new job, and suffering from a bad back. The combination of discomfort and a general lack of enthusiasm resulted in what she described as a “John Wayne-style walk” back to the counter. However, her primary concern was for the safety of a family, a father and three children, who had exited the store just moments before the attempted robbery.

Kerin vehemently denies that her actions were driven by bravery. Instead, she attributes her confidence to 20 years of rigorous martial arts training, which has honed her skills and instilled a deep sense of self-belief. She emphasized that she has mentally prepared for such scenarios, having sparred with opponents far larger and stronger than herself. This extensive training has equipped her with the ability to assess and respond effectively to threats.

The incident was later revealed to be part of a series of robberies committed across Telford. Jordan Hickman, 29, Jake Jones, 21, and an 18-year-old accomplice were apprehended and subsequently sentenced to a combined total of 18 years in prison.

Chief Superintendent Edd Williams commended Kerin’s quick thinking and decisive actions, which prevented any harm to the shopkeeper and thwarted the robbery. He expressed gratitude on behalf of the West Mercia Police, recognizing Kerin’s “inspiring act of bravery from an upstanding member of the public.”

The CCTV footage of the incident, shared on social media by Wadokai England, has garnered over 100,000 views, captivating audiences with Kerin’s remarkable composure and martial arts prowess. Her story serves as a testament to the power of self-defense training and the potential for ordinary individuals to become extraordinary heroes in the face of adversity. Kerin’s actions highlight the importance of preparedness and the ability to act decisively when faced with danger, reminding us that even in high heels, a determined individual can make a significant difference.