Shocking Attack: Man Bites Off Ear in Brutal Bar Fight
Luca Howse, 20, from Queens Drive, Rickmansworth, has been jailed for three years after a horrific assault at a London bar. On 8 March 2021, he was sentenced for grievous bodily harm with intent under Section 18 of the Offences Against The Person Act.
Violent Bite Caught on CCTV
Howse handed himself in to Hertfordshire Police at 9.35am on Sunday 24 November 2019 after viciously attacking a man the night before at The Steelyard in EC4R. CCTV footage captured him landing multiple punches on his victim in the smoking area before pouncing and biting off a piece of the man’s ear. The assault caused the complete loss of the helix and half of the earlobe.
Security staff intervened, dragging Howse away and detaining him until police arrived. An ambulance rushed the injured man, along with the severed ear segment, to hospital. Doctors tried to reattach the ear but failed, leaving the victim with permanent, life-altering injuries that have taken a heavy toll emotionally, physically, and financially.
Police Praise Security Measures
“I am pleased that this violent and unpredictable criminal has received a custodial sentence, following what was a senseless attack on an innocent member of the public which has left the victim with permanent injuries,” said City of London Police Constable Yusef Meerza.
“Thanks to security procedures at The Steelyard, including ID checks and CCTV, Howse was quickly identified and arrested, stopping further harm.
“I send my thoughts to the victim and his family — no one deserves to be attacked, let alone bitten. I hope Howse fully understands the consequences while serving his sentence.”
Jail Time and Remorse
Howse pleaded guilty and will serve three years, with eligibility for release on licence after 18 months. The court noted his letter of remorse apologising to the victim and a psychiatric report showing he suffers from PTSD. He has no prior convictions or history of violence, and the attack was unplanned.
