Autistic man barricaded Ipswich care home after assaulting staff member

Brandon Baker, who lives at the A&A Heathcare Ltd home in Felixstowe Road, pleaded guilty at Ipswich Magistrates Court today to charges of assault and criminal damage.

On Tuesday, September 26, Baker, who also has ADHD and learning difficulties, became agitated when alone in the home with staff member Takudzwa Chikari.

Baker sprayed water around the building with a plastic bottle before he grabbed a table knife and tried to break a window in an attempt to leave the home.

Prosecuting, Collete Harper said: “It was then that he approaches Mr Chikari and rests the knife on his knee.

“He then says ‘I will cut you if you don’t let me out’.

“Mr Chikari tries to remain calm and calls the manager and the police.

“Brandon barricades the front door and fills the hallway with items from the living room.

“Mr Chikari tries to speak to Brandon before locking himself in the staff room.”

Mrs Harper said the fire alarm sounded but Mr Chikari was unable to turn it off so returned to the locked staff room.

“Brandon kicks the door until the lock gives way and the door flies open,” she said.

“He then stands in the doorway shouting and threatening Mr Chikari.

“The fire brigade arrive because the fire alarm has gone off but can’t get in because of the barricade.”

Mr Chikari managed to get away and clear the barricade to let police and fire fighters into the building. Mrs Harper told the court the home had sustained substantial damage as was strewn with broken glass following the incident.

In mitigation, Dave Allan said Baker has a complex past and complex needs and that his client was very sorry about what had happened.

Baker also admitted breaching a six week suspended sentence and a conditional discharge.

Magistrates triggered the suspended sentence but as Baker has already served the time he was freed from custody.

He was ordered to pay £590 compensation for the damage to the home and £200 to Mr Chikari.