Violence flared after axe used in Willenhall money dispute
A father armed with an axe smashed up a window at a Willenhall business and grabbed a worker by the throat as violence erupted in a dispute over money, a court heard.
Ben Mansell became 'increasingly agitated' following a misunderstanding about a payment for metal taken to Autobits scrapyard.
The 23-year-old grabbed Phillip Smith, leaving him in discomfort and with reddening to the skin, while he also damaged a glass window worth around £40 to £50.
Walsall Magistrates Court was told Mansell was carrying the axe which was kept in the back of his van. However, it was not used against another person. Mansell, who is due to become a father again in the coming months, admitted charges of ass-ault, criminal damage and possession of an offensive weapon on April 25 this year.
Miss Val Hart, prosecuting, said all the offences occurred at the premises of Autobits, in Clarkes Lane. Mansell had taken scrap metal and a cash figure had been agreed.
He was told money had been paid into his account, but after checking Mansell could not see any record of the cash. He returned and became agitated. Miss Hart told the hearing yesterday: "In interview Mr Mansell said he had gone to the scrapyard in question over a dispute over money.
"He accepted there was a misunderstanding and he was wrong. He admitted getting an axe from the vehicle."
Miss Sarb Sehmi, defending, said her client was remorseful and had spoken to police without being legally represented.
She said Mansell had been worried he would not be paid for the scrap metal.
Miss Sehmi said the situation had become 'heated' by Mansell's own admission but claimed the assault was more of a push towards Mr Smith than grabbing.
She said it was accepted he had 'gone a step too far', but nobody was injured. The axe was always kept in the back of the van.
The case of Mansell, of Webster Road, Coalpool, was adjourned until June 11.
