TEEN ASSAULTS STEPDAD OVER PARENTAL ALLEGIANCE AND DRUG USE
During a heated argument, Daniel Brook assaulted his stepfather at the residence he shares with his mother in Crosland Moor.The victim sustained significant bruising as a result of the attack, which occurred on December 23 on Manchester Road.
Brook admitted to punching and dragging his stepfather, as well as causing damage to a table, door, remote control, and vacuum cleaner.
He claimed his stepfather punched first, but the victim denied this.
His solicitor, Ian Whiteley, explained that Brook had always had a poor relationship with his stepfather, and that his grievances stemmed from his mother choosing her relationship over him, which had worsened over several years.
On the day of the offense, Brook was taking Xanax that was not prescribed to him to manage his anxiety.
He pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm and criminal damage.
The court was told that during the altercation, Brook lost control and used more force than appropriate, dragging the victim about and kicking out.
The victim received grazes and extensive bruising but did not require hospital treatment.
Additionally, police found a knuckle duster in Brook's possession when they arrested him on February 9.
Judge Barr ordered a probation report before sentencing and acknowledged Brook's mental health issues.
Brook was bailed with conditions not to contact the victim or go within 100 meters of his address.
The sentencing is scheduled for March 29.
