Sentence: 40 months imprisonment and a 7-year restraining order
Suren Krishnan, aged 36, of Grant Road in Leasowe, Wirral, attacked shopkeeper Hardeep Singh at a Go Local convenience store on Twickenham Drive in Leasowe, Wirral, on December 7, 8, and 9, 2024. The attacks stemmed from a dispute over being refused store credit and perceived disrespectful language. On December 8, he swung a belt at Mr Singh, striking him on the shoulder and leg. On December 9, while under the influence of alcohol, he entered the shop, pulled out a claw hammer from his backpack, and struck Mr Singh on the knuckle during an altercation, shouting threats. The victim defended himself, and a member of the public helped eject Krishnan from the store. The incidents involved verbal threats, physical assault, and wrestling in the aisles, leaving the victim feeling scared.