Drunken Head-Butt Horror in Ramsgate: Man Jailed for 21 Months
A 55-year-old man with no fixed address has been slammed behind bars for attacking a woman in a brutal, unprovoked assault in Ramsgate. Austin Francis pleaded guilty to inflicting grievous bodily harm at Canterbury Crown Court on 24 August 2018.
Violent Fury in the Victim’s Home
On 26 June, the victim, a woman in her 50s, returned home to find Francis waiting. Despite knowing he’d been drinking, she tried to keep him calm. But the evening quickly turned nasty as Francis threatened to smash her belongings and hurt her.
Trying to escape his aggression, the woman moved to another room – but Francis followed and launched a savage head-butt to her face. Terrified, she fled outdoors and he chased after her. She managed to reach a friend’s house and call the police for help.
Serious Injuries and Tough Sentence
The assault left the woman with facial injuries that required ongoing medical treatment. Justice was served when Francis was sentenced to 21 months in prison and hit with a £130 victim surcharge.
He also received a five-year restraining order banning any contact with his victim.
Police Urge Victims to Speak Out
“Francis’ behaviour was aggressive, unprovoked and meant to intimidate the victim who showed great courage in trying to placate him before raising the alarm,” said PC Nikki Rogers. “There can be no excuses for his nasty behaviour.”
“I would encourage anyone in a similar situation to report it immediately,” she added. “Phone the police or ask a trusted friend or relative to do it. There is a range of support and help available. Nobody should feel trapped by domestic abuse.”
