A man from Bryn, Llanelli, faced sentencing at Swansea Crown Court for breaking his brother-in-law’s nose at his sister’s hen do after consuming 10 pints of lager. The incident, which occurred outside the Bryn and Trallwm Social Club in Llanelli, saw the defendant, Paul Collins, punching and kicking his brother-in-law following a heated argument about infidelity. Despite the assault, the wedding between Collins and his sister proceeded two weeks later, but it resulted in a significant rift between the victim and his sister.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that the 51-year-old defendant admitted to downing 10 pints of Madri lager on the evening of the altercation and could not recall the details of the incident. The victim suffered a nasal fracture with a “significant deviation” and had to undergo corrective manipulation under anaesthesia at Prince Phillip Hospital in Llanelli. In a statement read to the court, the victim expressed how the incident worsened his existing anxiety and depression.
Collins, who had six previous convictions for 23 offences, including a common assault in 2003, pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm. His barrister emphasised the defendant’s remorse and desire for reconciliation between his wife and her sibling. Despite the delay in charging Collins due to a change in the police computer systems, Judge Catherine Richards sentenced him to 10 months in prison, suspended for 18 months. He was also ordered to undertake a rehabilitation course, 150 hours of unpaid work, and alcohol monitoring for 90 days, as well as pay £800 in compensation to the victim.
The judge highlighted the unjustifiable delay in the case and expressed the frustration within courts regarding such delays, considering the human impact on all involved. She acknowledged Collins’s remorse but reminded him of the inappropriate behaviour that led to the assault and subsequent family discord. The sentencing aimed to provide justice while allowing Collins the opportunity to make amends and address his actions through rehabilitation and community work.
The court’s decision to suspend the prison sentence underscored a focus on rehabilitation and community service for Collins, while also addressing the financial compensation owed to the victim. The case serves as a reminder of the consequences of alcohol-fuelled violence and the importance of addressing underlying issues to prevent further harm. Ultimately, the hope is for healing and reconciliation within the family, highlighting the significance of acknowledging mistakes and taking steps towards accountability and restoration.