A man who knocked on the door of an unsuspecting victim in Ashby - before threatening and assaulting him with a firearm – has been sentenced.

Kody Walsham was sentenced to three years' detention in a Young Offender Institution when he appeared at Leicester Crown Court today (Friday 29 October).

Leicestershire Police report that, in the early hours of December 20 last year, 20-year-old Walsham visited his victim's address, knocking on the door and waking him up.

When the victim – who did not know Walsham at all – answered, he was given a hand-written note and had a firearm pointed at his head.

Walsham then hit the victim with the firearm before leaving the address.

The victim was left with a deep cut to his head.

As a result of further enquiries, including reviewing CCTV footage, Walsham – formerly of Gregory Street in Loughborough – was identified as the suspect and arrested in January this year.

On Tuesday (26 October) at Leicester Crown Court, he pleaded guilty to one count of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm and one count of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

He is also subject to a restraining order, forbidding him from contacting the victim.

Detective Constable Natasha Perkins was the investigating officer.

She said: "This was a completely unprovoked attack - and to this day the victim doesn't know why he was targeted by Walsham.

"It was undoubtedly a traumatic experience for him and I am relieved Walsham admitted his crimes, meaning the victim did not have to relive events in court.

"Walsham is undoubtedly a dangerous individual who is prepared to threaten and harm those who aren't even known to him.

"I hope the public can take some relief from the fact he has been brought to justice and is now serving time in custody."