A teenager attacked a waiter in a Swindon pub over ‘history with his ex-girlfriend’, a court heard.
Kigh Williams, who was 18 years old at the time, repeatedly punched his victim as he served food at his table at The Blunsdon Arms on 19 April last year.
Prosecutor Ben May told Swindon Magistrates’ Court today (Thursday) that the defendant, of Lampeter Road, Oakhurst, assaulted the man at around 9.30pm.
The victim sustained injuries to his eye and top of his head, for which he required treatment at Great Western Hospital’s accident and emergency department.
In custody, he told officers that he assaulted the man over history between the victim – who did not know the defendant – and his ex-girlfriend.
In a victim person statement, the waiter said that he is worried about going out socially as he knows Williams works nearby, and avoids local pubs over concerns he may be attacked again.
Gordon Hotson, defendant, said that his client – who was sober during the incident – “accepts it was wholly inappropriate” and “deeply regrets” his behaviour. He said Williams is living at home with his family and starting a telecoms apprenticeship later this year.
Businessman James Spiers, who owns an vehicle electrics company, said the now 19-year-old works with him on a voluntary basis and accompanied him to court.
He described him as “funny and kind-hearted” and a “outstanding worker”, adding that he was “shocked to hear of the incident”.
Mr Hotson continued: “He has very much learnt his lesson, this incident has been hanging over his head for some 16 months… it is unlikely to be repeated.”
Jane Flew, chair of the bench, described the assault as “very serious assault” that was “unprovoked”, and told Williams that he “could of killed that man”.
Accepting it was an impulsive act, he was sentenced to a 12-month community order with the requirement to complete 150 hours of unpaid work. He must also pay the victim £205 compensation, prosecution costs of £85 and a surcharge of £95.
