Man jailed for four-second attack after 'exploding with anger'
A man who ‘exploded’ with anger during an argument before flooring his victim with a punch has been jailed for 19 months.
Jarrad Melbourne, a 34-year-old baker, then kicked the other man while he lay defenceless on the ground.
A judge told him: “That was your folly. When you start kicking someone on the ground, the injuries can be catastrophic.”
Wolverhampton Crown Court heard that an argument initially started after the two men, who knew each other, met by chance on August 16 last year whilst both were in their cars with their windows down.
The victim, Mr May, had just collected a pizza from Bella Restaurant in Chapel Ash and was driving home, said Mr Stuart Clarkson, prosecuting.
Mr May, the father of a former partner of Melbourne’s, told police a brief exchange of words ensued before he continued his journey home. But Melbourne followed and on arrival, both men got out of their cars.
Mr May told Melbourne ‘Go, or I’ll call the police’ but although the defendant did turn back, CCTV footage of the incident showed Mr May return to where they had been speaking. Melbourne approached him again and swung a punch.
Melbourne, a father of three, was then seen kicking him while he was on the ground. The victim suffered a broken arm and a severe cut.
Mr Justin Jarmola, defending, described the defendant, as hard-working and said the attack was out of character.
Melbourne, of Marmion Grove, Dudley, admitted assault causing grievous bodily harm.
