Evan Williams, a 55-year-old horse trainer, has been sentenced to three years in prison for attacking a 72-year-old dog walker on his property in Llancarfan, Vale of Glamorgan, south Wales. The incident occurred on December 4, 2024, when Williams struck Martin Dandridge with a hockey stick, causing a fractured arm and other serious injuries. 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 in March.
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 highlighted an earlier incident where Williams had been threatened by poachers on his land, but emphasized that taking the law into one's own hands is never acceptable.
Williams, a successful trainer with multiple Grade One wins, including at the Cheltenham Festival, will now serve a three-year prison term.