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Posted on the 12th May 2025 in PHTM News
SUNDERLAND MAN JAILED FOR 42 MONTHS FOR SLEDGEHAMMER ATTACK ON NEWCASTLE CABBIE'S CAR
A 23-year-old Sunderland man has been sentenced to 42 months in jail after terrifying a Newcastle taxi driver by pulling a sledgehammer from his trousers and attacking his vehicle.
Callum Cain pleaded guilty to attempted robbery, criminal damage, and possession of an offensive weapon following the early morning incident in June 2023.
The court heard that the victim, a private hire driver, had dropped off a passenger in Sunderland city centre and was driving on the A183 when he encountered Cain, who was heavily intoxicated.
Recorder Richard Stubbs at Newcastle Crown Court described how Cain "stepped out in front of the taxi" and then placed both hands on the bonnet.
The situation escalated dramatically when the driver saw the weapon. "At that point, he could see you were carrying a sledgehammer inside your pants, about two-and-a-half feet long with a wooden handle," Recorder Stubbs stated.
Despite an attempt by another man to intervene, Cain proceeded to attack the taxi. "You removed the hammer from your trousers and repeatedly struck the car's windscreen with it," the Recorder continued.
The terrified driver reversed his vehicle as Cain ran towards it, shouting for the keys before turning his attention to another car. Dashcam footage corroborated the attack.
The victim reported feeling "scared and shocked" by the ordeal. His taxi was out of service for a period, incurring £1,156 in repair costs and an additional £400 in expenses.
Recorder Stubbs condemned the crime as a "persistent attack" on a "lone taxi driver going about his business."
Defending Cain, Nick Lane offered a public apology on his client's behalf. "He would wish me to apologise publicly. He recognises this must have been a worrying incident."
Lane added: "He was intoxicated to the point he has no real recollection of the incident or his motivation at the time. It's his case he came upon the hammer but he accepts he had it on his person and used it."
The court also heard that Cain has learning difficulties and mental and physical health issues stemming from a difficult childhood.
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