Michael Cahill, prosecuting, said when no money was forthcoming, the defendant became aggressive and placed his arm around the man’s neck in a firm chokehold. Mr Cahill said it was only the intervention of onlookers, including the builders, that led to the victim being released. The defendant then began bouncing around making threats in a slurred manner before police attended and arrested him. Leonard, 35, of Brighton Road, Darlington, was charged with attempted robbery, intentional strangulation, assault by beating and attempted theft, all of which he initially denied. Judge Nathan Adams told Leonard the victim was merely “minding his own business” when he was confronted and attacked by him, which was only brought to an end thanks to the intervention of others.