Evan Williams, a renowned horse trainer, has been sentenced to three years in prison for a violent attack on a dog walker who had entered his property. The 55-year-old trainer assaulted 72-year-old Martin Dandridge with a hockey stick, resulting in serious injuries, including a fractured arm. The incident occurred on December 4, 2024, at Williams' land in Llancarfan, Vale of Glamorgan, south Wales. Despite denying the charges, Williams was found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm with intent by a unanimous jury after a trial at Cardiff Crown Court.
During sentencing, Recorder Angharad Price condemned Williams' actions, stating that he had made a choice to confront the victim instead of waiting for police to arrive. The judge highlighted that while Williams had a right to protect his family and champion racehorses, this did not justify the harm caused to Mr. Dandridge. Williams' past experiences, including a disturbing encounter with poachers six weeks prior to the assault, were taken into account but did not excuse his actions.
The sentence serves as a reminder that taking the law into one's own hands is never acceptable and that it is always best to rely on law enforcement in such situations. Williams' successful career as a multiple Grade One-winning trainer has been put on hold, with his wife, Cath, having taken over the licence after his conviction.