Evan Williams, a 55-year-old trainer, has been sentenced to three years in prison for attacking a 72-year-old dog walker, Martin Dandridge, who was walking on his land in Llancarfan, Vale of Glamorgan, south Wales. The incident occurred on December 4, 2024, and resulted in Mr Dandridge suffering a fractured arm and other injuries after being repeatedly struck with a hockey stick. Williams was found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm with intent after a trial at Cardiff Crown Court in March, despite denying the charge.
Recorder Angharad Price handed down the sentence, stating that Williams had made a choice to confront Mr Dandridge instead of waiting for the police to arrive. The judge noted that while Williams had a right to protect his property and family, this did not justify the violent attack on Mr Dandridge. Williams, a successful trainer with multiple Grade One wins, including at the Cheltenham Festival, will now serve a three-year prison term. The incident has raised questions about the use of violence in defending one's property, with the judge emphasizing that it is never acceptable to take the law into one's own hands.