A MAN who stamped on his victim's forehead after an argument over a game of pool has been jailed for seven months at Worcester Crown Court.
Recorder Martin Cardinal warned Michael Dalton that he could have been facing a murder or manslaughter charge for such dangerous behaviour.
Fortunately, the injury to Frank Meadows was not serious and he was able to get up off the ground in High Street, Evesham, and chase after his attacker.
A day later, Dalton stole drink worth £19 and damaged a police patrol car after his arrest near the off-licence he targeted.
Dalton, aged 28, of Newtown, Offenham, near Evesham, admitted affray, theft and criminal damage.
An argument developed in the Ambassador club in Evesham on Saturday, August 16, between Dalton and Mr Meadows over the potting of the black ball, said prosecutor Ian Ball.
When Mr Meadows left the club with his friend Mark Cambridge, they saw Dalton sitting on a wall outside. He later came up to them outside a kebab house, extending his hand to Mr Meadows and saying sorry for the disagreement.
As Mr Meadows shook hands, he was punched to the ground by Dalton and kicked in the back by a friend of the defendant.
Mr Ball said the forehead stamping which followed was captured on a street security video. Mr Meadows suffered head and body bruising.
Dalton had 21 previous court appearances, his offending including assault, thefts and damage.
His accomplice, who prevented Mr Cambridge coming to the aid of the victim, was given 100 hours community work by magistrates.
William Rickarby, defending, said Dalton had drunk two gallons of strong lager that night and was alcohol dependent.
He had been affected by finding his father dead at his home in Droitwich which had caused extreme distress and led to criminal behaviour.
Mr Cardinal said it was a "nasty" attack, which could have caused a grave injury. The public was entitled to protection.
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