A teenager pretended to be an Amazon delivery driver before trying to force his way into a vulnerable victim's home.
Finley Griffiths, 18, of Neville Close in Prenton, targeted a man who he wrongly suspected of being a sex offender. Liverpool Crown Court heard on Wednesday that Griffiths, who appeared via online link from prison, had turned 18 just four months before the attack.
On August 27 last year, Griffiths attended the home of the victim, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, at around 6.55am pretending to be an Amazon delivery driver, and ringing the doorbell. When the victim woke and opened the door slightly Griffiths, who was brandishing a large kitchen knife, pushed the door open with his hand and arm.
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Prosecutor Ben Berkson said Griffiths "caught the victim in his chest", causing a small cut, before he managed to close the door, trapping Griffiths' arm and causing him to drop the knife. While running off, Griffiths threw a brick at the window, causing it to smash.
The court heard how the "vulnerable" victim had been subjected to previous torment and the latest attack left them with sleepless nights, anxiety, depression and had since moved away from the area.
John Weate, defending, said Griffiths had an "element of remorse" and "indicated an intention to address his offending behaviour". He said: "His mum, who sits at the back of the court said he has, through his childhood, suffered issues with ADHD."
He added the "overwhelming factor" was Griffiths' age and "lack of maturity" and there is a "different side to Finley Griffiths." Mr Weate went on to say the 18-year-old was of previous good character, helping to look after his siblings, and had seen things in custody that has "really shook him", including two assaults in prison.
Griffiths was supported by his family members in the public gallery as he appeared before the court via an online video link from prison, where he has been since his arrest.
His Honour Judge Stuart Driver KC said the aggravating features was the dangerous weapon, which had a 10-inch blade, as well as the fact the victim was already vulnerable. But he took into account his age, lack of maturity and ADHD diagnosis.
Griffiths was given a total custodial sentence of five years and five months and a five year restraining order, of which he will serve half in custody.
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