Leicester, United Kingdom – A dispute between two homeless individuals outside a Tesco in Leicester city center led to a violent altercation, with one man assaulting the other over a debt. The incident, caught on CCTV and presented at Leicester Crown Court, showcased the confrontation between David Newman, 27, and a 41-year-old beggar sitting outside the store.
As the situation escalated, Newman struck the older man in the head before kneeing him in the face. The attack then moved out of view of the camera, resulting in the victim being knocked to the ground and having his head smashed into the pavement by Newman. Despite sustaining injuries, the victim declined treatment from paramedics post-assault.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Newman had a history of criminal offenses related to drug use, including selling cocaine, battery, causing bodily harm, and assaulting a police officer. Newman, who had been sleeping on the streets and using drugs, pleaded guilty to assault causing actual bodily harm.
The defense attorney, Vasanti Vaitha, shed light on Newman’s troubled past, citing childhood trauma and epilepsy as factors contributing to his current situation. She mentioned that Newman had started using more drugs, including class A substances, after a falling out with his brother, which led to his life on the streets.
Despite Newman’s troubled background, Recorder Adrian Reynolds decided to suspend the prison sentence, acknowledging Newman’s challenges but emphasizing the need for personal accountability. Newman expressed gratitude towards the judge but was warned that any future transgressions would not be met with leniency.
In sentencing Newman to a suspended six-month term with probation requirements, Recorder Reynolds highlighted the importance of rehabilitation and prevention of re-offending. The judge opted not to assign unpaid work due to previous outstanding hours from a prior conviction, emphasizing the need for Newman to take responsibility for his actions moving forward.