Hammer-assault man granted final chance by judge to avoid jail

Lincoln Crown Court.
Lincoln Crown Court.

A Gainsborough man who struck a friend over the head with a hammer has been given a last chance to avoid jail.

Michael Beevers, 29, was given a 12-month suspended prison sentence in January after he admitted assaulting his long-standing friend, Liam O’Brien.

But Beevers was ordered back before Lincoln Crown Court after he failed to comply with rehabilitation requirements imposed as part of his sentence. The court was told Beevers, of Riseholme Road, had missed a number of probation appointments and did not always engage with staff.

Noel Philo, representing the Probation Service, said the original sentence concerned an assault on Mr O’Brien in September last year.

The court heard Mr O’Brien was in the habit of checking on his friend and let himself into his flat with a key when there was no answer.

Mr Philo said the flat was in darkness but when Mr O’Brien entered Mr Beevers’ room he was immediately struck over the head with a hammer.

A number of other blows were swung at Mr O’Brien but he managed to escape after kicking Beevers between the legs.

The court heard Mr O’Brien suffered cuts to his head and arms and was badly shaken by the assault.

Beevers explained that he had heard his buzzer go but did not want to answer, and became anxious and scared when he realised someone was in his flat. Mr Philo said Beevers kept the hammer next to his bed because of his fear of attacks.

Stuart Lody, defending, said Beevers suffered from mental health problems and was supported in court by his father.

Mr Lody told the court: “Mr Beevers’ father says his son uses amphetamine every day and spends all his money on it.

“Despite everything he loves his son and supports him financially.

“As well as Mr Beevers’ sister sending him messages to keep his appointments, Mr Beevers’ father is a taxi driver and will take him.”

Recorder Paul Mann QC adjourned sentencing for six weeks to give the defendant a final chance to co-operate with the Probation Service.

The judge told Beevers: “I just hope you understand how close you have come to going to prison.”

Addressing Beevers’ father, he added: “I can tell you if you had not come today he would not be going home.”