A man has been jailed for more than eight years after attempting to rob an off-licence in Bracknell while armed with a claw hammer.
Jamie Brown, 35, of no fixed abode, was sentenced to eight years and four months in prison at Reading Crown Court on 30 March. He pleaded guilty to attempted robbery, possession of an offensive weapon and criminal damage following a Thames Valley Police investigation.
The incident took place at about 23:00 GMT on 26 December 2025 at an off-licence on Market Street. Two employees, aged in their twenties and thirties, were cleaning the store when Brown entered and walked towards the back.
Police said Brown moved around the shop looking at items before asking one employee a question. As that worker went into a storeroom, Brown checked he was alone with the second employee before producing a claw hammer from his coat.
He then struck the employee, who ran outside. The first worker returned after hearing the commotion, but Brown attempted to hit him as well, forcing him to retreat.
Brown then demanded money and smashed the glass in the shop door. A fight broke out when one employee tried to usher him outside.
Two members of the public entered the shop and helped force Brown outside. Police said Brown apologised, but then attempted to strike one of the employees again before walking away.
Members of the public restrained him until officers arrived. He was arrested the same day and charged the following day.
Det Sgt Sasha Lakovic, the investigating officer, said: “I hope this result for Brown serves as a deterrent to anyone who thinks it’s acceptable to target store workers in our communities.
“We remain resolute in our efforts to reduce crime and take robust action against those who repeatedly target our communities.”
