Evan Williams, a renowned horse trainer, has been sentenced to three years in prison for a violent assault on a dog walker who was on his property. The incident occurred on December 4, 2024, when Williams, 55, used a hockey stick to repeatedly strike 72-year-old Martin Dandridge, resulting in serious injuries, including a fractured arm. Despite denying the charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, Williams was found guilty by a unanimous jury after a trial at Cardiff Crown Court. During sentencing, Recorder Angharad Price condemned Williams' actions, stating that he had a choice to either confront the victim or wait for the police to arrive.
The judge acknowledged Williams' passion for protecting his champion racehorses and family but emphasized that this protection should not come at the expense of others. Williams' sentencing serves as a reminder that taking the law into one's own hands is never acceptable and that it is always best to contact the authorities when a crime is suspected. Williams is a multiple Grade One-winning trainer with notable successes at the Cheltenham Festival, including a recent win by Ask Brewster in the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Handicap Chase.