Man sentenced to prison for carrying out a 'brutal assault'

A 25-year-old man has been imprisoned after carrying out a brutal assault on another man, kicking and stamping on his head while he was unconscious.

Jack David Anthony Merry confronted a 20-year-old man who was walking with friends along Aberdeen Walk in Scarborough at around 10:45 PM BST on 7 September. Merry, from Union Street, Scarborough, chased the victim on his bicycle and attacked him with kicks and punches once he fell, with witnesses fearing the assault could have been fatal, according to North Yorkshire Police.

During his appearance at York Crown Court on Thursday, Merry received a sentence of three years and four months in prison after pleading guilty to attempted grievous bodily harm with intent. Footage captured by bystanders on mobile phones helped police identify him.

The victim did not sustain serious or permanent injuries, though Detective Constable Darrel Temple emphasized that the attack "could have easily resulted in death." He added, "The victim endured significant trauma and was fortunate to escape with only minor injuries despite Merrys clear intent."

Police reported that the violent nature of the attack shocked witnesses, many of whom provided statements describing the severity of the assault. Merry has also been placed under a restraining order to safeguard the victim.

Author: Zoe Harrison