Two men jailed for assault in Norwich city centre
One of the men carried a weapon - and assaulted the victim from behind
Two men have been sentenced in connection with an assault in Norwich city centre earlier this year.
Brendons Jelsmanis (above left), aged 26, of St Faiths Lane, Norwich and Daniel Greenshields (above right), aged 32, of Lamb Lane, Norwich were sentenced at Norwich Crown Court today (Friday 28 August 2026).
Jelsmanis had previously pleaded guilty to GBH with intent and possession of an offensive weapon, namely a hammer. Greenshields had previously pleaded guilty to GBH without intent.
The court heard how at around 10pm on 18th May 2026 the two men were walking through Norwich city centre with the victim, a man in his 20s.
They got into an argument and Jelsmanis and Greenshields parted company with the man on Prince of Wales Road. A short time later they returned to the victim - one of them carrying a weapon - and assaulted the man from behind.
Jelsmanis and Greenshields left the scene before emergency services were called and the victim was taken to hospital with minor injuries. The weapon was initially described as axe but was later identified as a hammer.
Following extensive enquiries, Jelsmanis was identified by officers and arrested on 31 May 2026. Two days later Greenshields was also arrested. Both were charged and remanded until today's hearing where the court sentenced Jelsmanis to 3 years 9 months imprisonment and Greenshields to 18 months imprisonment.
Following sentencing Detective Constable Gemma Womack from Norfolk police said;
"This was a serious and violent attack carried out with complete disregard for the safety of both the victim and members of the public who were in the area.
"There is no excuse for carrying a weapon on our streets and we welcome the fact both men are now in prison and will be held accountable for their actions."