A man endured “significant pain” after a drunken assault in Harlow town centre left him with displaced teeth, a court was informed.
On August 4, 2023, the victim was attacked without provocation while seated in the town’s Market Square by James Underwood, 23, and an accomplice. The assault left the victim with lasting dental issues and facial deformity, according to a court statement.
Underwood, residing in Ladyfields, Loughton, pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm. At Chelmsford Crown Court, he was sentenced to 18 months in prison, suspended for two years. The second attacker’s sentencing will occur at a future date.
Victim’s Painful Experience
The 39-year-old victim was sitting around 21:00 BST when the unprovoked assault occurred, as detailed by prosecutor Donna Longcroft. She noted that the victim, who is not fluent in English, was unable to comprehend the attackers’ remarks before being struck.
The victim was initially punched on the left side of his face by Underwood’s associate and then struck on the opposite side by Underwood himself, Longcroft reported. Subsequent medical evaluations revealed a fractured jaw and a 7mm (0.3in) displacement of his teeth.
The victim described the aftermath: “I experienced immense pain and was unable to open my mouth or eat. I will need future jaw surgery to alleviate the pain.”
Court’s Response
Recorder John Brooke-Smith characterized the assault as a “terrifying ordeal” for the victim, highlighting the enduring emotional impact. “The emotional damage is profound and will linger for years,” he stated.
Defense attorney Jonathan Rosen explained that Underwood was under the influence of alcohol at the time, which impaired his judgment. Rosen emphasized Underwood’s commitment to leading a crime-free life despite his 10 prior convictions for 25 offenses.
Recorder Brooke-Smith opted to suspend Underwood’s prison sentence to facilitate rehabilitation. Underwood was ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid community service, engage in 30 days of rehabilitative activities, and adhere to 120 days of alcohol abstinence monitoring.
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