Barrow teen punched male to back of head following dispute - sentence

Tommy McGladdery, of Barnfield Lane in Barrow, threatened to kill the complainant outside a takeaway on Cavendish Street on March 24, South Cumbria Magistrates’ Court was told.

It came as a result of the victim allegedly laughing at one of the defendant’s friends who was having a seizure, the probation service said.

Prosecutor Lee Dacre said McGladdery – aged 18 - was arguing with the male in the street when he decided to assault him.   

The victim said in his impact statement he had to attend hospital due to a cut sustained from the punch inflicted by the defendant.

He added his night out had been ‘ruined’ as a result of the defendant who he had never met before in his life.

McGladdery was also sentenced for the common assault of an emergency working by beating.

Mr Dacre said the charge related to the defendant pushing PC Burrows to the chest when attempting to evade the officer who was trying to detain him.

In mitigation, Karen Templeton said her client had ‘no recollection’ of the events due to his drunken state.

She added: “He is very remorseful for his behaviour and has never been in trouble before.

“During that time, he was having some emotional difficulties with his girlfriend and other problems which meant he turned to drink.

“He accepts what he did was completely unacceptable and that he must be punished.”

Sentencing McGladdery to a 12-month community order, chair of the bench Michael Halshaw said: “This was a night of stupidity. It was a vicious and unprovoked attack committed whilst in drink. We view that as a very serious matter.

“However, we also take into consideration your immaturity and the fact you have no previous convictions.”

As part of the community order, McGladdery is required to complete an 80-day alcohol monitoring requirement and five rehabilitation requirement days.

He was also ordered to pay £200 in compensation to the victim of the assault, as well as £50 to PC Burrows.