Hythe man sentenced in Southampton for biting victim's ear off

Shane Williams bit the top of another man's ear off while on a trip to buy cigarettes.

A witness described the attack in Beech Crescent, Hythe, as "like a dog ragging at a chew toy."

Beech Crescent, Hythe

Prosecution barrister, John Carmichael, said: "The incident was brought to an end by a neighbour spraying a hose of water at Mr Williams."

"The victim was punched and pushed on the drive of his property.

"He felt he was being hit all over his head and body as he protected his head with his arms. He was driven to the door of his house."

The man was left with "bruises and cuts associated with blows" following the assault on June 29, 2019.

Southampton Crown Court heard how the defendant and two other men had parked up in Beech Crescent.

Williams, who was in drink at the time, then used "angry and threatening words" toward his victim and his group of friends.

Appearing at Southampton Crown Court, the 24-year-old of Elm Crescent, Hythe, stood to be sentenced for ABH and GBH.

A jury found him guilty of both offences following a previous trial at the same count.

Defending, Keely Harvey, said: "His actions were perhaps impulsive and spontaneous and based on something he believed he had heard."

She cited a probation report which stated that Williams was at a low risk of reoffending.

Miss Harvey added: "He has also expressed his remorse, not only for his actions but also for the injury that was caused."

Furthermore, she described the attack as something that happened that was out of character.

At sentence, the court Recorder, Mr Robin Sellers, said: "I am just persuaded not to send you to prison today."

He mentioned that the attack had happened two-years-ago and the impact an immediate custodial sentence would have on Williams' dependants.

He jailed him for 15-months, suspended for 18-months.

Williams must pay £700 in compensation, £1,500 in court costs and complete 150 hours of unpaid work.