A father and son who launched a vicious attack on a business rival outside his home have been handed suspended prison sentences. David Dixon, 46, and Jordan Dixon, 28, assaulted Gary Edmunds in Newport on January 26, 2022, following a dispute at a petrol station.
Attack Details
The incident began when David Dixon took offence at a light shone from Mr Edmunds' vehicle. At a petrol station in Monnow Way, David Dixon confronted Mr Edmunds, saying: 'Come round the back Gar and we'll sort it out.' Later, as Mr Edmunds returned home, the Dixons arrived in a vehicle. David Dixon punched him twice, and Jordan Dixon stamped on his head while he was on the ground. Passers-by intervened, and the defendants fled.
Injuries and Impact
Mr Edmunds was taken to Grange University Hospital in Cwmbran with blood in his left ear canal, tenderness in the ear bones, and swelling to the upper ear and jaw. He suffered a perforated eardrum, which later healed. In a victim personal statement, Mr Edmunds said he had previously lost hearing in his right ear due to a brain tumour and relied on his left ear. The attack damaged his left ear, requiring a digital hearing aid. He stated: 'I have never experienced memory loss before and I was shocked at my ability to remember the impact.' He also expressed anxiety about encountering the defendants again.
Court Proceedings
Both defendants pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm. David Dixon had four previous convictions, and Jordan Dixon had one, including a wounding offence. In mitigation, Alice Sykes for David Dixon described his actions as 'madness, rage and stupidity,' noting his remorse and responsibility for three children. Williams Bebb for Jordan Dixon highlighted an 'unacceptable' delay in the case and noted Jordan had already served eight months for a subsequent wounding offence.
Sentencing
Judge Vanessa Francis imposed suspended sentences: David Dixon received 16 months, suspended for two years; Jordan Dixon received 18 months, suspended for two years. Both must complete a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement and pay £500 compensation each.
