2007: MAN JAILED FOR ASSAULT ON PARTNER IN PUB
A 21-year-old man who assaulted his girlfriend by choking her and threw beer glasses at a landlady has been sentenced to five months in prison.District judge Bruce Morgan told Worcester Magistrates' Court that the defendant, Wayne Hale of Orchard Close, Pershore, had committed serious criminal acts warranting a custodial sentence.
Hale pleaded guilty to three charges of assault by battery, one count of criminal damage, and an offence related to using threatening words and conduct that could cause harassment, alarm, or distress.
The prosecution, represented by Dale Sheeham, explained that Hale had been in a relationship with Wendy Potnall for about a year and a half, and their meeting at the station led to a visit to the Millers Arms pub in Pershore.
She noted that after consuming homemade cider, Hale’s behavior became increasingly aggressive.
The couple argued over money, during which Hale grabbed his girlfriend around the neck, causing her to struggle for breath.
Later that evening, Hale returned to the pub, where he threatened to kill her while heavily intoxicated.
When asked to leave, he threw two pints of cider at the landlady—hitting her with the first and smashing the second behind her—and also punched her and caused damage to the pub door.
Hale told police that he was on medication that should not be mixed with alcohol and had little recollection of the events, with a doctor confirming he has ADHD, which can affect his behavior.
Judge Morgan emphasized that although Hale pleaded guilty, the gravity of the offences required him to serve time in custody.
