Man assaulted 25-day-old baby months before punching Tesco security guard

A man who inflicted serious injuries on a “defenceless” 25-day-old baby and a few months later carried out a violent robbery has been jailed. Joshua Grant, aged 32, of Ashampstead Road, Reading, was sentenced at Reading Crown Court on October 26 to a total of five years and six months’ imprisonment. He had pleaded guilty to assaulting a child to cause unnecessary injury and was found guilty of robbery and theft after a trial in his absence. The child cruelty offence occurred on March 23, 2023.

An investigation by Thames Valley Police found that Grant caused serious injuries to a baby aged just 25 days old. The infant suffered two broken ribs, bruising, and brain, spinal and retinal haemorrhaging.

Grant was arrested and subsequently charged on November 18, 2024. He pleaded guilty to the child cruelty offence at Reading Crown Court on November 10, 2025.

He was convicted in relation to a robbery at Tesco in Bath Road, Reading, which happened on January 17 this year. During the incident, he punched a security guard in the face before fleeing the store with stolen goods.

The victim, a 57-year-old man, was left with lasting injuries to his teeth. Investigating officer Detective Constable Sam Haselgrove, of the Major Crime Unit, said: “Joshua Grant caused extremely serious injuries to a defenceless baby who was just 25 days old.

“The harm he inflicted could have had devastating consequences, and I am pleased he has now been held accountable for his actions. This case reflects our determination to protect vulnerable victims and bring those responsible for serious offences before the courts.

“Grant’s offending was not limited to this incident. He also used violence against a shop worker who was simply carrying out his duties.

“I welcome the sentence imposed by the court and hope it provides reassurance that offenders who commit such serious crimes will be brought to justice.

“We will always investigate reports of suspected child abuse thoroughly and work with partner agencies to safeguard children at risk.”