A man attacked and threatened an alleged rumour-monger believing his family was being put at risk of reprisals, Lynn magistrates heard on Monday.
David Haward, 44, of London Street, Swaffham, pleaded guilty to assault. He was given a 12 conditional discharge and told to pay £50 compensation and £70 costs.
Josephine Jones, prosecuting, said the victim had been walking along an alleyway in Swaffham.
He was beckoned over by Haward who grabbed hold of him and threw him against a wall, warning him to keep his mouth shut. The victim was not injured but suffered fear and distress.
Haward told police he had become aware the man had spread false rumours about him in connection with a robbery, said Miss Jones.
Ruth Johnson, mitigating, said the incident arose from a chance encounter and was short-lived. Haward’s family had suffered fear and distress because of the rumours as the alleged robbery involved a known drug dealer.
She said: “He was significantly concerned about repercussions.”
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