A stranger, described as being “like something possessed,” walked into a father-of-three’s home and attacked him in a terrifying incident in Carmel, Flintshire. The stranger, identified as David Hamilton, engaged in a physical altercation with the victim, Stephen Hunter, after entering the property through an unlocked door. Hamilton punched Mr. Hunter and wrestled him to the ground, causing harm. The victim’s wife attempted to intervene as Hamilton continued his assault, even picking up a brick and causing damage to the property.
Following the attack, Hamilton was arrested and taken to the hospital for treatment due to injuries sustained during the incident. He displayed abusive behavior towards hospital staff. Hamilton admitted to four offenses, including assault causing actual bodily harm. Despite the severity of the incident, the judge at Mold Crown Court decided that Hamilton could be rehabilitated and thus opted to spare him a jail sentence.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Hamilton had a history of disruptive behavior, including an incident where he entered a pub he was banned from and created a disturbance. The court also learned that Hamilton had shown remorse for his actions and was held in high regard by his employer. The judge issued Hamilton an 18-month suspended sentence for assault causing actual bodily harm and a two-month suspended sentence for attempted burglary, both to run concurrently.
In addition to the suspended sentences, Hamilton was ordered to pay £2,000 in compensation to his victims, wear an alcohol abstinence monitoring tag for 120 days, attend rehabilitation activities, and undergo mental health treatment. He was also banned from entering a specific street in Carmel for three years. The judge emphasised the fear and trauma experienced by the victims during the attack and noted the impact on the peaceful neighbourhood where the incident occurred.
Despite the seriousness of the charges, the judge considered the potential for Hamilton’s rehabilitation and the welfare of his dependents, including his child who depended on him. The decision to impose suspended sentences aimed to address the underlying issues contributing to Hamilton’s behavior while holding him accountable for his actions. The judge highlighted the importance of balancing punishment with opportunities for rehabilitation in cases involving complex circumstances.