A man was left with a broken jaw after refusing to sell drugs to a thug on Christmas Day in a vicious assault. The incident, reported in Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court, detailed how Ben Jenkins attacked the victim who declined his request for drugs. Jenkins, described as a keen gardener liked in his community, confronted the victim after he refused to facilitate the drug sale. The judge condemned the assault, stating there was no valid reason for Jenkins’ violent actions. Nuhu Gobir, the prosecutor, recounted how the victim spent Christmas night at his granny’s house in Treorchy and was subsequently attacked by Jenkins in the garden shed. The victim was then subjected to severe blows and demands for an apology while on the ground.
The court heard that a neighbour overheard the attack and Jenkins running off when a light came on in the garden. The victim sustained significant injuries, including a broken jaw, nasal fracture, and bruises to his face and chest, leading to a hospital visit. Jenkins was later apprehended and admitted to the assault, claiming self-defence. In a statement to the court, the victim expressed increased anxiety and reluctance to socialize due to the incident’s aftermath. With a history of previous convictions, Jenkins pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm. Despite his remorse, Jenkins was handed a 16-month prison sentence suspended for 18 months, along with rehabilitation and alcohol monitoring requirements.
The judge highlighted the severity of the attack, noting Jenkins’ disproportionate response to being refused drugs. The victim’s emotional and physical trauma was acknowledged in the sentencing, emphasising the impact of the assault on his daily life. The court order also included a restraining order preventing Jenkins from contacting the victim for three years, underlining the seriousness of the offense. The community’s shock at the incident resonated in the court proceedings, with Jenkins’ positive reputation contrasting with his violent actions. Despite the suspended sentence, the court emphasized the need for accountability and rehabilitation for the defendant.
Incidents of drug-related violence are a concerning issue in communities and can have far-reaching consequences for victims like the one in this case. The court’s decision to impose strict measures on Jenkins reflects the gravity of the assault and aims to ensure the victim’s safety and well-being. The case serves as a reminder of the destructive impact of drug-related crimes and the importance of addressing underlying causes of violence. By holding perpetrators accountable and providing support to victims, the justice system plays a crucial role in deterring future violence and promoting community safety.