Man jailed after launching grudge attack in victim’s home

A former armed forces serviceman has been jailed for 13 months after he forced his way into a man’s home and launched a violent, premeditated assault against him.

Ian Prosser, 40, of Oak Grove, Cwmfelinfach, Caerphilly, rang the doorbell of his victim’s property at around 9.20pm on Saturday, March 15 last year – and smiled at the man when he answered the door.

He then headbutted the complainant, knocking him unconscious, before punching, kicking and stamping on him in a sustained attack lasting around 90 seconds. ⚖️

The victim woke up in a pool of blood, only for Prosser to resume the assault, Cardiff Crown Court heard.

The man’s wife was also attacked when she tried to come to her husband’s aid, with Prosser pushing her away.

Prosecutor Sol Hartley told the court: “It was premeditated, planned and persistent.”

When Prosser was later arrested by police, he told officers: “F*** him, he’s a k***! He’s a f****** d***!”

He also made threats to kill the victim during the attack, the court heard.

Prosser pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm and assault by beating.

Despite having no previous convictions, his barrister Clare Wilks acknowledged: “He did cross a line that day.”

She described the violence as an “isolated incident” and told the court: “He is a hard-working, dedicated family man.”

Miss Wilks said it had been her client’s intention to confront the victim that day, but not to physically assault him. The court also heard that Prosser runs his own business and employs two apprentices.

However, Recorder Christian Jowett said the offences were so serious that only an immediate prison sentence could be justified.

Prosser was jailed for 13 months and made the subject of a restraining order. He must also pay a victim surcharge following his release from custody at the halfway stage.