A former gardener in Newcastle has been sentenced after attacking his neighbours and damaging their car during a heated argument last summer
It all started when he damaged their car, causing about £700 in repairs. The tension had been building for a while, and that day, it just boiled over.
In court, it was revealed that Chapman hit the car’s bonnet before turning his anger on the neighbours. He punched the male neighbour, leaving him with a burst lip, and pushed the female neighbour, causing her nose to swell.
Chapman was given a 12-month community order and ordered to pay £450 in compensation. The prosecutor shared that this all kicked off after an argument on June 26.
The female victim expressed her fear, especially with kids at home. She said her 11-year-old saw the whole thing unfold. The male victim was equally shocked, stating he never expected to be assaulted by a neighbour.
Chapman had a history of 16 offences but had kept out of trouble since 2016. His lawyer mentioned that his own car had been damaged, which led to him losing his job. Now, he’s relying on Universal Credit.
The judge felt a community order was appropriate, given Chapman’s past and the circumstances.
