Punter attacked man in Ipswich bookies
CCTV of man wanted after assault in Norwich Road Ipswich. - Credit: Archant
A 43-year-old punter has been given a community order after attacking another man in an Ipswich bookies.
Somirul Hoque, of Ainslie Road, Ipswich, was caught after police released CCTV images of him following the assault which left his victim with a deep, two-and-a-half centimetre cut to his forehead.
Hoque pleaded guilty at South East Suffolk Magistrates’ Court to causing actual bodily harm to Chi Lee – who is in his 60s – at Coral’s in Norwich Road.
The court heard Hoque claimed Mr Lee had owed him money, and was then abusive about a member of his family when he saw him in the bookmakers.
Prosecutor Tess Mann said the incident occurred on October 6 last year.
CCTV showed Hoque walking up to Mr Lee and hitting him several times to the face.
Mr Lee stumbled backwards, and Hoque continued to strike him before being told to leave the shop.
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Mr Lee was left bleeding heavily from his forehead.
Although he gave a description of the man who attacked him, Mr Lee said he did not know of any reason why he had been assaulted.
Mrs Mann said when police released CCTV stills of the perpetrator the housing officer where Hoque lives came forward after recognising him.
Lyndon Davies, representing Hoque, said his client had known Mr Lee over the years and seen him in betting shops.
The court was told Hoque said he lent Mr Lee ‘a pound or two’ for a bet. Mr Davies said: “At one point as much as £50.”
It was claimed some of the money had not been paid back and Hoque had not seen Mr Lee for some time.
About a month before the assault he had seen him in town and spoke to him, raising the issue of the money he was owed.
Magistrates heard Hoque was given some abuse by Mr Lee who pointed an umbrella at Hoque and his wife.
When Hoque saw Mr Lee in Coral’s he went to walk past him. However, it was claimed Mr Lee made abusive comments about Hoque’s mother and “he flipped”.
Mr Davies said Hoque handed himself in to police when he became aware of the complaint against him.
Hoque was sentenced to a 12-month community order with a 150-hour unpaid work requirement,
He must also pay Mr Lee compensation of £100.
