Man Jailed After Unprovoked Ilkeston Assault

24-year-old Lee Rhodes of Dovedale Circle pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent after assaulting the man in the early hours of Saturday 30th June at St Mary’s Church in Market Place.

The 32-year-old victim was asleep on a wall in the church yard when Rhodes and his friends approached and spoke to him, waking him up.

Following a brief verbal exchange, Rhodes punched the man’s face, causing him to fall unconscious before standing over him and unleashing further punches.

He was pulled back by friends, but then picked up a builder’s hard hat and used it to unleash further blows to the face of his victim, who suffered serious head and facial injuries.  

PSI Lindsey Scribbins said: “This sentence reflects the severity of the prolonged attack. The judge deemed Rhodes to be a dangerous offender and said this lengthy prison term will also go towards protecting the public from Rhodes and his violent behaviour.

“The victim was a completely innocent member of the public, targeted by Rhodes for no reason and without provocation.

“He has asked us to pass on thanks to the witnesses for administering first aid on the night of the offence, and for their bravery in coming forward to provide statements to police which ensured Rhodes was brought to justice."