A British holidaymaker's dream Spanish getaway turned into a nightmare when he was brutally attacked with a glass by a fellow UK tourist in a violent Benidorm pub confrontation.
Dean Anthony Jones, 46, from Liverpool, has been sentenced to two years and eight months in a Spanish prison for the horrific assault that occurred during a heated argument about football. The 42-year-old victim suffered severe facial injuries that will leave permanent scarring.
The Night That Turned Violent
The incident unfolded at the Rock and Rollers pub in Benidorm's bustling tourist area when Jones, described as acting aggressively after consuming alcohol, became embroiled in a dispute with another British holidaymaker. Witnesses reported escalating tensions before Jones smashed his glass and used the jagged remains as a weapon.
The victim sustained deep cuts to his face that required immediate medical attention and will result in lifelong facial scarring. Spanish emergency services rushed to the scene following the late-night altercation that shocked other patrons in the popular resort bar.
Spanish Justice Delivered
During proceedings at Criminal Court number 4 in Alicante, Jones admitted his guilt for the crime of injury. The court heard how the violent attack left the victim with significant physical and psychological trauma.
In addition to the prison sentence, the judge imposed a three-year restraining order preventing Jones from approaching or communicating with his victim. The court also ordered Jones to pay substantial compensation of €3,500 to the injured man for the physical and emotional damage caused.
Growing Problem of British Tourist Violence
This case highlights the ongoing issue of alcohol-fuelled violence among British tourists in popular Spanish resorts like Benidorm. Local authorities have repeatedly expressed concern about the behaviour of some UK visitors, particularly those engaging in drunken disorderly conduct and violent acts.
Spanish police have increased patrols in tourist areas following several high-profile incidents involving British nationals. The Spanish judicial system has demonstrated it will not tolerate such behaviour, handing down significant sentences to those convicted of violent crimes.
The sentence serves as a stark warning to British tourists planning summer holidays in Spain that violent behaviour will have serious consequences, potentially turning a dream holiday into a lengthy prison stay.
