In a horrifying incident in Monmouthshire, a grandfather was brutally attacked and left bloodied by a man wielding a pickaxe handle in a frenzied assault. Richard Cook, 45, targeted Robert Price in the front garden of his home in Gilwern, Monmouthshire, following an earlier altercation with the victim’s wife. The shocking attack only ended when neighbours intervened, fearing for Price’s life. The disturbing details of the assault were recounted at a sentencing hearing at Cardiff Crown Court by Court Correspondent Philip Dewey.
According to reports, Cook had a confrontation with Price’s wife earlier in the day after shouting at their grandchildren. Later, when Price was alone at home watching television, he encountered Cook in his garage. The aggressor threatened to kill Price, leading to a violent exchange where Cook repeatedly struck Price on the head with a pickaxe handle, even attempting to force it down his throat. Neighbours rushed to the scene upon hearing the commotion and stopped Cook, who callously remarked that Price was likely going to die.
The consequences of the savage attack were severe, as Price sustained multiple injuries requiring hospital treatment. His daughter drove him to the hospital where he was treated for wounds to his head, shoulder, forearm, and abdomen. Price shared in a victim statement the lasting trauma he experiences, including flashbacks, panic attacks, and physical ailments, profoundly impacting his family as well. Cook, of Broadmead, Gilwern, had a history of previous convictions, including possession of cannabis and dangerous driving linked to a fatal incident.
During court proceedings, Cook pleaded guilty to charges of wounding with intent and inflicting grievous bodily harm. Defence counsel John Ryan offered mitigation, suggesting Cook was provoked by comments made by Price about another individual. Despite this, Recorder John Philpotts handed down a sentence of four years and three months for the brutal attack. Cook will serve half of the term in custody before being released on licence, highlighting the seriousness of the crime and its lasting repercussions on the victim and his family.
The shocking nature of the assault underscores the need for swift justice and protection for victims of such violent acts. The community’s response in intervening to stop the attack demonstrates the importance of solidarity and vigilance in ensuring safety and security for all. The court’s decision to impose a substantial sentence reflects the severity of the crime and aims to deter such acts of aggression in the future. As Price continues to recover from his injuries, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of standing up against violence and supporting victims in their journey to healing and justice.