Ellesmere Port man stamped on victim’s head in savage attack outside Destiny and Elite nightclub

Mar 10 2011 by Allison Dickinson, Chester Chronicle

A SENIOR police officer has welcomed the sentencing of a drunkard who stamped on a man’s head outside an Ellesmere Port nightclub.

Paul Darlington, 23, of Stafford Gardens, Ellesmere Port, was jailed for two years after he admitted grievous bodily harm when he appeared at Chester Crown Court on Monday.

The court heard how Darlington attacked the victim on September 4 last year after believing he had spiked a female friend’s drink.

Graham Gerson, prosecuting, said: “The assault happened as the victim reached the main road after leaving the Destiny and Elite nightclub at 3am.

“CCTV footage showed the defendant pushing or punching the victim to the ground before stamping on his head twice and leaving him on the floor.”

The victim was left with a broken nose and cheekbone as well as bruising and damage to his teeth, one of which was knocked loose.

The victim has been left traumatised by the attack as well as suffering a loss of earnings and costly dental work amounting to about £1,000.

Mr Gerson added: “The victim couldn’t sleep for a couple of weeks afterwards because of the pain. He can’t go out on his own without looking over his shoulder and he was having difficulties eating. He doesn’t go out much any more.”

Darlington was arrested the next day but made no comment during interview. He was later picked out of a video identity parade by a witness.

Judge Dutton sentenced Darlington to two years in jail.

Assistant Chief Constable Janette McCormick said: “The judge has sent a clear message to anyone who thinks alcohol provides an excuse for violent, unacceptable behaviour.