‘Desperate’ drunk tried to mug Brierfield dog walker

A “DESPERATE” drunk who tried to mug a dog walker in the early hours just for his can of cider has been spared jail.

Burnley Crown Court was told how Clifford Bamber had drunk three litres of cider when he attacked victim Jason Brown with dumbbells, trying to knock the alcohol out of his hand. But the victim ended up injured after the incident in Brierfield on July 2nd.

Bamber (28), of Wesley Street, Brierfield, admitted attempted robbery and was given 12 months in jail, suspended for 18 months, with 18 months’ supervision and an 18 month alcohol treatment requirement. He must pay £300 compensation.

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The court heard how Bamber owned up on the basis he had no intention to injure Mr Brown, but accepted he did hurt him.

Mr Brown was in an alleyway when he heard a voice say: “Give me all you have got.” The victim told him he had nothing, but the defendant repeated his demand and Mr Brown saw he was holding what appeared to be a metal bar.

Mr David Macro (prosecuting) said Bamber raised his arm to shoulder height and brought the dumbbell down on Mr Brown’s left hand. Mr Brown ran off, Bamber chased after him and the victim dropped the can as he ran. He called the police and the defendant was arrested.Mr Brown suffered a cut knuckle and grazing.

Mr Martin Hackett, for Bamber, said he was no longer drinking and had not committed any more offences. He had been drunk and acted out of character.

The barrister continued: “It was an action, in many ways, out of desperation, from somebody who was, at the time, clearly addicted quite heavily to alcohol.”

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