Glass attack in Union Street: Man jailed for vicious assault
Calm attempt turns violent
In the early hours of 9 August 2020, a man in his 40s spotted a group of men approaching him on Union Street. Among them was 29-year-old Luke Priestman, clutching a glass and looking angry. The victim recognised Priestman from the area but didn’t know him personally. Fearing trouble, he tried to persuade Priestman to put the glass down.
Sudden savage attack
Despite repeated efforts to defuse the situation, Priestman suddenly swung his arm, smashing the glass into the victim’s left ear. The sharp shards caused a deep, serious cut. The victim fought back and Priestman was dragged away by his mates before the group fled the scene.
Justice served at Maidstone Crown Court
The injured man was left to seek medical help while police launched an investigation. Officers tracked down and arrested Priestman at his home in Queen Anne Road. He was identified and charged with grievous bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.
On 20 December 2021, at Maidstone Crown Court, Priestman pleaded guilty. He was handed a three-year prison sentence, which included activating a suspended sentence. PC Jamie Webb of Maidstone CID said:
“This was an unprovoked attack on a public-spirited person who was trying to calm a violent situation. The victim suffered a serious head wound and continues to be affected by the assault. Priestman has been remanded in custody since the incident and deserves further time behind bars.”
