Teen left with bleed on the brain after altercation during night out in Carmarthenshire
A teenager in Carmarthenshire suffered a serious injury after being punched during a night out. The incident occurred outside a pub on December 19, 2021, at Lammas Street in Carmarthen when 24-year-old Vytautas Aliskauskas punched a 17-year-old causing him to fall to the ground. The blow was so severe that the teenager hit his head on the floor, leaving him unconscious. The prosecution stated that Aliskauskas, accompanied by his girlfriend, also slapped one of the 17-year-old’s friends before fleeing the scene. However, he was later apprehended by Dyfed-Powys Police officers at 4 am.
The victim was swiftly taken to the hospital where he was diagnosed with a bleed on the brain as a result of the head injury. Following a CT scan, he was discharged the next day but faced a month-long recovery period during which he was unable to work. The impact of the incident extended beyond physical injuries as the teenager reported memory loss and confidence issues. Financially, he also suffered due to lost wages during his recovery period. Aliskauskas pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm and had a prior conviction for battery in 2016.
In court, it was highlighted that sentencing for the offence had been delayed, and since the incident, Aliskauskas had not engaged in further criminal behaviour. His defence counsel emphasised his client’s changed circumstances, noting that he was now a dedicated family man with two children dependent on him. Despite acknowledging these factors, Judge Paul Thomas KC condemned the unnecessary violence, highlighting the risks associated with such actions. He emphasised the potential severity of such incidents, noting that fatal outcomes were not uncommon in similar situations.
The judge ultimately sentenced Aliskauskas to 12 months of suspended custody, with the requirement to complete 200 hours of unpaid work. While the incident resulted in a serious injury for the young victim, the outcome of the case reflected both the impact of the assault and the subsequent changes in the perpetrator’s life. This case serves as a reminder of the repercussions of violent actions, not only for the victims but also for the individuals responsible. It underlines the importance of accountability and the potential for rehabilitation even after serious offences.
In Wales, incidents of violence during nights out have been a cause for concern, highlighting the need for measures to ensure the safety and security of individuals in social settings. Community awareness and respect for the law are crucial in preventing such incidents and promoting a culture of responsibility and accountability. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement, the justice system, and community initiatives are essential in addressing and reducing instances of violence, safeguarding individuals’ well-being and fostering a safer environment for all.