Man’s Finger Severed by Topless Attacker on Busy High Street in Swansea
In a shocking incident on August 9th, a man lost part of his middle finger in the middle of Swansea’s High Street after being assaulted by a “completely berserk” topless attacker. Dexter Smith, 39, from Neath, carried out the attack that left the victim severely injured.
Smith drove to the heart of Swansea and made his way on foot down the city’s bustling High Street. He encountered a group of young men outside La Toscana restaurant at approximately 7.30 pm and began hurling insults and physical assaults towards them, calling them derogatory names before slapping one of them and throwing punches.
At one point during the altercation, Smith picked up a chair, and as the victim tried to fend off the attack by clinging to one of its legs, a part of his right middle finger was completely severed. Despite the victim’s attempts to escape, Smith continued his violent spree, hitting two members of the public and lashing out at a car waiting in traffic.
The chaotic situation only came to an end when individuals from the car intervened and subdued Smith until the arrival of South Wales Police officers, who promptly arrested him. The victim was rushed to Morriston Hospital with a severe injury to his finger that ultimately required partial amputation. Although the missing part of the finger was located on Swansea High Street, medical professionals were unable to reattach it.
During the court proceedings at Swansea Crown Court, the prosecution highlighted the impact of the incident on the victim, who expressed ongoing fear and trauma. In a statement read out in court, the victim revealed the psychological toll of the attack, stating that he is haunted by the memory and petrified of encountering Smith again.
In a bid for leniency, Smith’s defence barrister emphasised his client’s remorse and regret for his actions, highlighting that prior to this incident, Smith had a clean record for several years. However, the judge, His Honour Judge Geraint Walters, condemned Smith’s behaviour as “quite bizarre” and sentenced him to three years in prison for inflicting grievous bodily harm and affray, to be served concurrently.
In addition to the prison term, Smith was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £228. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of unchecked aggression and violence in public spaces. It underscores the importance of swift justice and accountability for those who perpetrate such appalling acts.