By Oscar Woods 
Thomas Lawton, a British inventor once known for his environmental innovations and television appearances, now faces serious criminal charges following a series of violent incidents in the Wiltshire market town of Malmesbury.
Police responded to reports of disturbances on Bristol Street and Bremilham Road on Saturday afternoon, August 2, 2025, leading to the arrest of the 49 year old High Street resident.
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What Happened in Malmesbury
Wiltshire Police were called to the scene after receiving reports of a man partially clothed and threatening members of the public. Initial reports suggested the individual was armed with a knife, prompting a significant police response in the usually quiet market town.
However, authorities later clarified important details about the weapon involved. The force confirmed that the item used was actually believed to be a piece of broken pot or similar object, not a knife as originally reported. No one sustained knife wounds during the incidents.
The Charges Against Thomas Lawton
The inventor was arrested and subsequently charged with multiple offenses. According to the official statement from Wiltshire Police, Lawton faces:
- Sexual assault
- Common assault
- Attempted robbery
- Two counts of threatening a person with an offensive weapon in a public place
- Two counts of criminal damage to property valued under £5,000
The 49 year old was remanded into custody and appeared at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
Who is Thomas Lawton
Before these incidents, Lawton had built a reputation as an award winning inventor and artist. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and previously received the US Green Dot Award for environmental excellence.
His inventions included the WakeYoo recordable alarm clock, which sold over 250,000 units through major UK retailers. More recently, he created Uplift, a kinetic sculpture designed for meditation and relaxation, which garnered attention from mindfulness communities and celebrities.
Lawton also starred in his own Channel 4 television series, Tom’s Fantastic Floating Home, which aired in 2014 and showcased his houseboat living.
Police Response and Community Impact
A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police thanked the public for their support during the investigation. The force has been working to provide accurate information while conducting their inquiry into the multiple attacks that occurred across different locations in Malmesbury on the same afternoon.
The incidents occurred in a town known for its historic abbey and peaceful community atmosphere, making the events particularly shocking for local residents.
Court Proceedings
Following his arrest, Lawton was held in custody rather than being released on bail. His appearance at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court marked the beginning of legal proceedings that will determine the outcome of the serious charges he faces.
The combination of violent offenses and property damage charges represents a significant fall from grace for someone who had previously been celebrated for creative contributions to environmental design and innovation.
What’s Next
The case will proceed through the court system as prosecutors present evidence related to the attacks that took place on August 2. The multiple charges reflect the severity of the incidents and the number of alleged victims involved in the afternoon disturbances.
Wiltshire Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attacks on Bristol Street and Bremilham Road. The court will examine all evidence before reaching conclusions about the charges against the former television personality and inventor.
The Malmesbury community, meanwhile, processes the unexpected nature of these events in their historic market town.