Two men are beginning prison sentences after carrying out a serious assault in Canterbury in which their victim was attacked with a baseball bat.
On 11 December 2023, officers were called to an address in Frencham Close where a man had been set upon by two offenders. He was kicked, punched and hit with a bat during the violent assault. South East Coast Ambulance Service were called and treated the man. After receiving further medical attention at a local hospital, the man was later discharged.
On 12 December 2023, investigating officers charged William Crump, from Canterbury in connection with the assault. Lawrence Cole, from Hersden, was also later charged. Both men were known to the victim.
Crump, 35 and Cole, also 35, were sentenced at Canterbury Crown Court on Friday 24 May 2024 after they both pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm. Cole also pleaded guilty to three driving offences on the night of the assault.
Crump was jailed for two years and one month, while Cole was sentenced to one year and 11 months in prison – which included an additional custodial term for failing to attend court when required.
Detective Constable Paul Sharp said:
‘These violent offenders subjected their victim to a sustained and terrifying physical ordeal, the consequences of which could have been life-changing.
‘We always strive to bring criminals before the courts and I hope that the victim will have some closure knowing that Crump and Cole are now behind bars.’