Thug who attacked vulnerable man jailed

John Jefferson was driving in Trimdon Station in August 2024 when he jumped out of his car to attack the male.

 

The 65-year-old repeatedly and punched and kicked him several times before snatching a gold chain from round his neck and getting back in his car.

 

When the victim, who has autism and learning difficulties, tried to sit up, Jefferson got out of his car a second time and continued the sustained attack before fleeing the scene.

 

The attack was filmed by the teenagers who then ran off, leaving the victim seriously injured at the side of the road.

 

The victim was taken to hospital where he was treated for several days.

 

Jefferson, of Trimdon Station, was identified as the suspect, and attempted to claim self-defence, before being shown damning CCTV evidence clearly showing the sustained assault.

 

Jefferson also tried to deny stealing the victim’s gold chain.

 

However, forensic evidence showed that a gold chain recovered from Jefferson’s home belonged to the victim.

 

He was charged with several offences and was found guilty of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent and robbery after a trial in November.

 

On Monday he was sentenced to a total six-and-a-half-years in prison at Durham Crown Court.

 

Detective Sergeant Ash Hagar, who led the investigation said: “This was an awful attack, in broad daylight, in front of youths.

 

"The victim has been incredibly brave to support the investigation throughout, and I am delighted that the jury have seen through Jefferson’s lies."