A man from Birmingham has been sentenced to prison after assaulting a worker at a supermarket in the Black Country.
Violent incident follows shoplifting attempt
The incident occurred at the Asda Great Bridge Supercentre on Brickhouse Lane in Tipton shortly before 11am on Monday, January 5. Stefan Baker, 40, of Witton Road in Aston, is reported to have stolen alcohol from the store before turning on members of staff.
West Midlands Police were called to the scene at approximately 10.50am following reports of the theft and the subsequent assault on employees. A police spokesperson confirmed that a suspect was swiftly apprehended and charged.
Court appearance and sentencing
Baker was remanded in custody to appear at Wolverhampton Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, January 6. The initial charge of common assault was replaced by a charge of assault by beating during the proceedings.
The magistrates handed down a total sentence of 16 weeks' imprisonment. This is understood to be comprised of 12 weeks for the assault by beating and a further four weeks for the shoplifting offence. Baker was also ordered to pay a £40 fine.
Emergency services response
West Midlands Ambulance Service confirmed they were alerted to reports of an assault at the location. However, their assistance was ultimately not required, and crews were stood down by police officers already at the scene.
The case highlights the serious consequences of violence against retail workers, with the courts imposing immediate custody for the offences.
