Man gets suspended sentence for assaulting nine across Wales

A 34-year-old man who launched a string of violent attacks across Wales, assaulting nine people including five police officers, has been given a suspended prison sentence.

Matthew Williams first attacked his then-partner in Penrhyndeudraeth, Gwynedd, after drinking Stella lager. He punched her face, pinned her on a sofa, then followed her outside and put her in a headlock before driving off in his white Toyota.

When police arrested Williams at his mother’s home, he showed “vile” behaviour towards officers. He threatened one officer saying “I’ll f****** bite ya” then kicked her in the stomach, causing her to be in “shock and disbelief”. Williams then kicked a second officer in the chest and a third in the leg.

At Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor, Williams threatened to burn down an officer’s house and rape the mothers of two officers.

While on bail, Williams committed more offences in South Wales. In Kenfig Hill, Bridgend, he told a couple “I will give you four bags if you smash up a car for me” before putting the man in a headlock and punching the woman. He also punched his then-partner in the face.

At Prince of Wales Hospital, Williams told one officer “Get your black hands off me” and “donkey kicked” another officer in the knee.

At Caernarfon Crown Court, Judge Her Honour Nicola Jones sentenced Williams to 24 months imprisonment, suspended for 24 months. He must complete rehabilitation work or face immediate prison.

Defence solicitor Elen Owen said Williams had suffered trauma and “made himself intoxicated” to deal with his “demons”.

A three-year restraining order was imposed to protect one victim.