Birtley thug sentenced for assault and obstruction after violent street outburst

An alcoholic thug named Garry Kendal punched his girlfriend in the head and attempted to bite her during a violent incident on a busy street. The incident, which took place on Front Street in Chester-le-Street, County Durham, was witnessed by a passer-by who was so concerned that they filmed it with their mobile phone and contacted the police. The court was informed that Kendal's violent outburst was fueled by alcohol consumption and occurred in front of members of the public on August 6 this year. Prosecutor Paul Anderson stated, "He punched her with his left fist to her head. He then moved towards her in an attempt to bite her. She didn't make a complaint to police but a passer-by took footage on his phone." At the time of the offences, Kendal was on a suspended sentence. The woman involved did not wish to make a statement about any injuries she may have suffered. Kendal was prosecuted using the mobile footage as evidence. He pleaded guilty to assault by beating and a separate offense of obstructing a police officer, and was sentenced to a 12-month community order. In addition, he was ordered to complete a nine-month Alcohol Treatment Requirement, fined £200, and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £114 victim surcharge. The court heard that Kendal's alcohol problems were acknowledged, with his defense attorney, Alanna Wesncraft, stating, "He himself recognizes he's got a problem with alcohol and does need some assistance with that." Furthermore, Kendal committed an obstructing police offense on August 15 by attempting to prevent officers from gaining entry into a house to arrest a woman. It was also noted that he was on a suspended sentence at that time. The District Judge at Newcastle Magistrates' Court, Paul Currer, described Kendal's actions as "extremely unpleasant and so horrifying for people watching it that they took footage of it." The judge emphasized that the incident was likely driven by Kendal’s excessive alcohol consumption. Details about any injuries sustained by the woman remain unknown, as she refused to give a statement. Alanna Wesncraft confirmed that Kendal recognises his alcohol issue and requires help. Besides the community order, Kendal was ordered to undertake a nine-month Alcohol Treatment Requirement, pay a £200 fine, £85 costs, and a £114 victim surcharge. The court acknowledged his guilty pleas and the footage used as evidence to convict him.