A MAN from Gwynedd broke another man’s jaw in a “very nasty assault,” after believing he had started a relationship with his former partner of more than 20 years.
John Jones, 65, of Marconi Bungalows, Tywyn, was sentenced to 16 months’ imprisonment, suspended for a year-and-a-half, at Caernarfon Crown Court today (March 26).
He had previously admitted inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent.
Prosecutor Laura Knightly said on the morning of September 10, 2024, Mark Cartwright was sat in his car in Tywyn, taking a phone call, when a Ford Transit van pulled up and “boxed in” his vehicle.
Mr Cartwright was then confronted by Jones, who opened a car door and spoke to him in an “angry” tone, before “repeatedly and forcefully” punching him to the face.
This left Mr Cartwright bleeding heavily from his mouth, while his mobile phone was also thrown under his car.
He underwent surgery for a broken jaw, and had to have his teeth shaved.
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As a consequence of the attack, Mr Cartwright was unable to eat solid foods for four to five days, or work for three weeks.
Jones was arrested later that day, but made no comment in his two police interviews.
In a statement, Mr Cartwright said he feels “ashamed,” and finds himself “looking over his shoulder” whenever he leaves his home.
He maintained he was simply friends with Jones’ former partner, and had not began a relationship with her.
Representing Jones, who had a previous conviction for assault occasioning actual bodily harm in 2000, Philip Williams said the defendant acted in “emotional distress”.
Character references submitted on Jones’ behalf described him as a “pillar of the community,” an “exceptional tenant,” and a “great father”.
Mr Williams said Jones is “not a well man,” and takes medication for high blood pressure.
“This was an unfortunate reaction to what he perceived was the end of his family life,” Mr Williams added.
“This is a man who is full of regret and embarrassment. He should have just walked away.”
Sentencing, Judge Timothy Petts told Jones he was responsible for a “very nasty assault” which was “prolonged and persistent”.
He ordered Jones to complete 15 days’ rehabilitation activity and 100 hours’ unpaid work, and to pay Mr Cartwright compensation of £5,000.
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