Motorist Jailed for Deliberate Pavement Attack in Kings Hill
A 25-year-old man has been locked up after he deliberately used his car to injure a pedestrian in Kings Hill. Thomas Arnold drove his Ford Fiesta onto a pavement, smashing into the victim and pinning him against a lamppost.
Attack Sparks from Parking Dispute
The shocking incident happened on the evening of June 25, 2023. Arnold and the victim, who knew each other, were involved in a heated argument that escalated from ongoing disputes, including parking issues.
At about 7:40 pm on Park Drive, Arnold swerved his car onto a grass verge before striking the man, forcing him onto the bonnet and trapping him against the lamppost. The victim suffered multiple injuries, including two broken legs. Arnold fled the scene, leaving the badly hurt man behind.
Arnold Flees But Is Caught
Police quickly tracked down the abandoned Fiesta nearby. Investigations revealed Arnold had escaped to the Isle of Sheppey. On June 27, he handed himself in at Sheerness Police Station, claiming he was “scared” of the victim and that his foot slipped on the accelerator. He denied intending to cause harm.
Guilty Plea and Harsh Sentence
Arnold, from Lavender Road, East Malling, was charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent. At Maidstone Crown Court, he pleaded guilty and was sentenced on October 1, 2024. He has also been issued with a restraining order.
Detective Constable Hannah Barker said: “Arnold showed no hesitation in using his car as a weapon, and his actions left his victim suffering appalling injuries. It is only by chance that the victim survived this mindless assault, though there is no doubt that the ordeal will have a profound and lasting effect.”
“As well as the physical scars, this crime will likely have a significant psychological impact on the victim for the rest of their life. I only hope this sentence will provide some closure and reassurance that at least justice has now been served.”
The sentencing closes a thorough investigation and sends a clear warning about the grave consequences of using a vehicle as a weapon.
