A violent attacker who targeted a Jewish man outside a Manchester synagogue had just failed his driving test hours before the brutal assault, a court has heard.
Joshua Levy, 31, launched an unprovoked attack on 65-year-old Michael Gerrard as he left the Holy Law Synagogue in Broughton Park, north Manchester. The shocking incident occurred on October 9, 2022, leaving the victim with serious facial injuries.
The Day of Violence
Manchester Crown Court was told how Levy's day began with disappointment when he failed his driving test in the morning. Rather than returning home, he travelled to the synagogue area where he waited for approximately 90 minutes before spotting his victim.
Prosecutor Rob Hall described how Levy approached Mr Gerrard from behind and delivered a powerful punch to the side of his head. "The defendant then stood over the victim and rained down further blows to his head and body," Mr Hall told the court.
Victim's Harrowing Ordeal
The assault left Mr Gerrard with multiple serious injuries including a fractured eye socket, broken nose, and significant bruising across his face and body. The court heard how the victim's religious skullcap fell to the ground during the violent attack.
In a moving victim impact statement, Mr Gerrard expressed how the incident had fundamentally changed his life. "I don't feel safe walking anywhere anymore," he said. "This has completely destroyed my confidence."
Police Investigation and Arrest
Greater Manchester Police launched an immediate investigation, with officers quickly identifying Levy through CCTV footage from the driving test centre. The footage showed him wearing the same distinctive clothing seen during the synagogue attack.
When arrested, Levy initially claimed he had "no idea" why officers were questioning him. He later admitted to being in the area but denied any involvement in the assault.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Levy, of no fixed address, eventually pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm. Defence lawyer James Cleary acknowledged his client's actions were "disgraceful" but argued there was no evidence the attack was racially motivated.
Judge Nicholas Dean KC remanded Levy in custody ahead of sentencing, describing the incident as "a nasty attack on a defenceless man." The case has raised serious concerns about community safety and religious tolerance in the Manchester area.
