Dog walker punched teenager and broke his jaw

A DOG walker punched a 17-year-old in the face and broke his jaw in two places during an argument.

It took place after he asked a group of teens who were camping for a can of alcohol and a cigarette.

Christopher Bolter, 43, of Nantyglo, Blaenau Gwent, assaulted the teenager in Brynmawr on August 7, 2020, after approaching the group while taking his dog for a walk.

He was given a can of cider but the atmosphere changed and the defendant began arguing with a girl in the group.

A sentencing hearing at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court on Thursday heard a “scuffle” broke out between Bolter and the girl, which caused the victim to step in and push the defendant away.

Describing the incident, prosecutor Sophie Keegan said: “[Bolter] hooked him to the face with his right hand at full force and knocked him off his feet.”

As a result of the assault, the victim suffered cuts and scratches and his glasses were knocked off.

He called his father and was taken to hospital.

He suffered a broken jaw in two places and concussion.

His mouth was bleeding after the wire from his braces cut into his gums.

The injuries required surgery and he needed his food blended for four to six weeks.

In a victim personal statement, he said: “I am afraid of going into Nantyglo and Brynmawr. I don’t go out with my friends often and I am worried about bumping into him.

“I am afraid of walking alone on the path where it happened... I have nightmares he knocked all my teeth out and I can’t go back to sleep.”

Bolter, of Brynawelon, attended a voluntary interview and said he had given the group money to buy more alcohol and admitted to pushing the victim, claiming he kicked his dog, but denied assaulting him.

He later pleaded guilty to a section 20 wounding/inflicting grievous bodily harm. The court heard he had five previous convictions, including two for battery.

In mitigation, Kevin Seal described his client as a “hardworking man” who provides for his family, and he and his partner are getting married in September.

He said the defendant wished to apologise to the victim.

Recorder Simon Hughes sentenced Bolter to 12 months’ imprisonment, suspended for two years. He ordered him to carry out a 15-day rehabilitation activity requirement, 150 hours’ unpaid work and to pay compensation of £250. He was also made subject to a restraining order for five years.