Michael Wood, 30, of Hazeldene, Kenton, has been given a suspended prison sentence after knocking a man unconscious with a single punch during a road rage incident in Byker on November 5 last year. He pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm without intent at Newcastle Magistrates' Court.
Incident Details
The altercation began when Wood clipped the victim's car near Byker Bridge. Both drivers pulled onto Elizabeth Street to exchange details. Wood initially gave a false name, claiming to be "John Smith." When the victim began recording the encounter on his mobile phone, Wood lost his temper and punched the victim in the face. The victim fell backwards, hitting his head on the ground.
The victim was knocked out and sustained a scalp gash requiring staples, along with an MRI scan at the hospital. He has since made a full recovery.
Court Proceedings
District Judge Kate Meek sentenced Wood to 30 weeks in prison, suspended for 18 months, and ordered 200 hours of unpaid work, £850 compensation, and £85 costs. She remarked: "You are extraordinarily fortunate that you're not here facing a more serious charge. Your solicitor will know of cases, as do I, that involve one punch and, if the victim goes down and hits their head off floor, it's very unlikely that they will get back up again. They are either dead or suffer life-altering injuries. It's no good saying 'it's just one punch' because one punch can have a devastating impact."
Victim Impact
In a statement, the victim expressed concern about Wood's behavior: "He needs anger management - he's a danger to his friends and family - for his own wellbeing. I fully believe he will do something like this again. I'm in fear for other people's safety and I was concerned for my wife and son's safety as I was not able to defend them."
Defense and Aftermath
Michael Gibson, defending, said Wood reacted after the victim claimed proficiency in jiu jitsu and Taekwondo. Wood later handed himself in. Gibson added: "He never stopped to think about the potential consequences. Although this was quite bad, it's a relief to Michael that [the victim] was not hurt more. He's shown remorse, he's ashamed and he wishes it had never happened."
Wood left the scene after the attack but later surrendered to police.
