Man Bites Off Stepfather’s Nose in Drunken Christmas Day Rampage
A festive family dinner in Liverpool turned into a nightmare when Joseph Cardwell, 23, bit off his stepfather’s nose during a booze-fuelled brawl. The shocking attack left William Darwin horrifically disfigured and traumatised.
Brandy-Fuelled Fury Sparks Brutal Assault
The court heard how Cardwell, drunk on brandy, snapped after a minor comment about his girlfriend on Christmas Day 2023. An attempt by Darwin—who had just got engaged to Cardwell’s mother—to calm things down ended in violence. Cardwell broke free from a bear hug and viciously sank his teeth into Darwin’s nose, then spat it on the floor.
Darwin required eight rounds of reconstructive surgery to repair the damage. The attack left him with deep physical and emotional scars, including ongoing flashbacks and anxiety.
Guilty Verdict and Jail Time
- Cardwell denied wounding with intent but a jury convicted him of grievous bodily harm.
- He was jailed for 21 months at Liverpool Crown Court.
- A five-year restraining order was imposed.
Judge Denis Watson KC slammed the assault as “a vicious and shocking display of violence,” adding, “You became like a dog with a bone… You were not prepared to let it go.” The judge noted Cardwell “overreacted” to a harmless comment and acknowledged alcohol played a heavy role.
Family Shock and Lasting Trauma
Defending barrister Sarah Holt said Cardwell was “regretful” and pointed out there was no previous history of conflict between the pair, who had generally gotten along. However, Detective Inspector Darren Hankin called the attack “vicious and shocking” and urged Cardwell to reflect on the “long-lasting consequences” of his actions during custody.
Darwin’s life remains changed forever by the horrific Christmas Day ordeal.
