A builder who confronted a man with a hammer in front of schoolchildren, claiming to be cleaning up the streets of drug dealers, has been sentenced by Cardiff Crown Court. Terrence O’Donnell, 50, took matters into his own hands due to frustration with crime in the Tremorfa suburb of Cardiff, according to the court proceedings.
The incident unfolded when O’Donnell engaged in an argument with a man whom he suspected of drug dealing. During the altercation, O’Donnell was pushed to the ground, hitting his head in the process. Fueled by anger, he retreated to his residence, reemerging only 34 seconds later, brandishing a hammer and swinging it in a fit of rage. The incident took place at the junction of Tweedsmuir Road and Clydesmuir Road around 3:10 pm on November 14, 2022, and was witnessed by several schoolchildren returning home from school.
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In his defense, O’Donnell’s counsel, Karl Williams KC, expressed his client’s deep remorse. He explained that the altercation began when O’Donnell got involved in a verbal dispute over moving the other man’s bike, which he claimed was obstructing the entrance to a nearby shop. Additionally, O’Donnell believed the man to be involved in drug dealing, and his actions were prompted by his frustration with the prevalent drug-related activities near his property.
Following the incident, O’Donnell initially denied any involvement when questioned by the police at his residence. It was only after being informed of CCTV footage capturing the altercation that he admitted to the incident. When questioned about his actions, he stated, “there’s nothing wrong with cleaning up streets of drug dealers.” Mr. Williams KC also informed the court that O’Donnell believed the other man was carrying a knife, which influenced his decision to confront him with the hammer.
Recorder of Cardiff, David Payne, acknowledged O’Donnell’s guilty plea. However, given the severity of the offense involving a weapon in a public setting, Mr. Payne deemed an immediate custodial sentence necessary. O’Donnell, residing in Merion Place, Tremorfa, received a 21-week prison sentence, of which he will serve half on license. He was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £154.