Burglar jailed after striking elderly man with hammer in his own home

A man who attacked an elderly resident with a hammer during a violent burglary has been jailed for six years.

Michael Ainsley, 41, forced his way into the victim’s home in Chester-le-Street in September, accusing the man of hiding drugs and demanding to know where the “gear” was. The victim repeatedly told him he had no drugs, but Ainsley struck him with a hammer, injuring his hand, before ransacking the property.

Ainsley fled the house empty-handed, but neighbourhood officers quickly attended the scene and secured the victim’s safety. Footage of the incident allowed police to identify Ainsley, who was arrested soon afterwards.

He refused to answer questions during police interview but was charged with aggravated burglary. Although he initially indicated he would contest the case, he later changed his plea to guilty in light of the evidence against him.

Ainsley, of Chester-le-Street, appeared at Teesside Crown Court on Thursday, November 27, where he was sentenced to six years in prison and ordered to pay costs.

Detective Constable Robin McGurk, who led the inquiry, said:

“Ainsley put this man through a terrifying ordeal. Thanks to local officers who recognised him, he is now behind bars where he belongs.”