Brutal attack in Newport leaves man fighting for life
Man assaulted in early-morning attack
In the early hours of 21 February 2021, police were called to a house on Caesars Road, Newport, after ambulance crews reported a man knocked unconscious. The victim, a man in his 50s, was found bleeding from the nose, mouth, and ears.
Suspect arrested and put on trial
Police investigations quickly led to 28-year-old Felix Hetherington from St Edmund’s Walk, Wootton, who was arrested for the assault. At Isle of Wight Crown Court, the jury learned Hetherington had savagely beaten the victim, leaving him in a life-threatening condition.
Victim suffered severe injuries
- Concussion
- Fractured wrist
- Fractured cheek
- Fractured jaw
- Bleed on the brain
- Abdominal trauma requiring emergency surgery
The court heard that without prompt medical intervention, the man would have died.
Conviction and sentencing
Hetherington denied causing grievous bodily harm with intent but was found guilty of the lesser charge of causing grievous bodily harm without intent. On 24 February 2023, he was sentenced to four years behind bars.
“This was a shocking and brutal assault which very nearly killed a man,” said DC Ed Stenning. “Had it not been for the efforts of paramedics and medical staff, the victim would not have survived. The level of violence was appalling. I hope this conviction sends a strong message that violence will not be tolerated and has serious consequences.”
