A dad knocked a man unconscious with a single punch after he indecently exposed himself in front of families on a residential street.
Richard Gathercole, 39, admitted to the assault in court, with Judge Richard Woolfall remarking it was “a miracle it was not worse” due to the victim’s fractured skull and brain haemorrhage. Grimsby Crown Court heard from Prosecutor Sam McGee how a van stopped and two men confronted the flasher before fleeing the scene.
Father-of-three Gathercole, from Low Street, Winterton, intervened when the man began his lewd act, landing a punch that sent him to the ground unconscious, HullLive reports.
Paramedics rushed to the scene, taking the injured man to hospital for a serious head injury treatment.
Defence lawyer Julia Baggs highlighted that Gathercole remained with the victim until emergency services arrived, recognising the need for medical assistance.
Baggs further mentioned that her client surrendered to the police the next day, expressing deep regret over the incident. She described Gathercole as a hardworking lorry driver and tree surgeon and a devoted family man who was praised by neighbours and friends for his golden heart.
“He is a committed family man, trustworthy and reliable with a heart of gold. Qualities that shone through,” she added, referencing letters backing Gathercole’s character.
Judge Woolfall, in sentencing Gathercole, noted that the impact had immediately knocked the man to the ground.
“That blow was significant,” he commented.
After a short stay at Hull Royal Infirmary, the individual was transferred to another hospital, where he self-discharged after making a “remarkable” recovery.
“People who do not know their own strength or catch someone the wrong way can end up killing people,” the judge warned.
“That becomes one-punch-manslaughter. Mercifully, there was a rapid recovery.”
He further noted that the father had reacted to the man’s indecent exposure in front of children. Describing the injury as severe and potentially fatal, Judge Woolfall said the outcome could have been more serious.
Gathercole was given an 18-month custodial sentence, suspended for two years, and was also ordered to complete 15 days of Rehabilitation Activity Requirement.
Following the hearing, Gathercole stated: “I’m only human”.
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