A Newport man has been sentenced to prison following an assault in which he bit another man’s cheek, inflicting wounds that have left his victim with permanent scarring. The incident, which took place in Bettws, Newport, saw 36-year-old Darren Young engage in what the judge described as an “unprovoked attack” that resulted in the victim requiring immediate medical attention and surgical stitches.
The episode unfolded on the evening of 2 November 2024, within a residential part of Bettws. According to details presented in Cardiff Crown Court, Young—who has no fixed address—became aggressive towards the victim, accusing him of showing disrespect. Tensions escalated as Young issued threats not only to the individual in question but also towards his family members.
The court heard that after an initial confrontation appeared to have de-escalated, the victim approached Young, seemingly in an effort to resolve the dispute. Instead of a peaceful exchange, Young responded violently, punching the man before biting deeply into his cheek. The severity of the bite was underlined by the victim’s need for nine stitches and the fact that visible scarring persists to this day.
Judge Matthew Porter-Bryant, presiding over the case on 21 July 2025, condemned the violence inflicted by Young, describing the resulting injuries as “horrible”. The judge further commented on the lasting physical and emotional impact experienced by the victim, who continues to struggle with anxiety in the aftermath of the assault.
During the hearing, the defence argued that Young’s actions had been influenced by longstanding difficulties with substance misuse, as well as a history of mental health challenges. The court was told that Young has been formally diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and borderline schizophrenia. These mitigating factors were cited in an attempt to explain, though not excuse, the gravity of the offence.
It also emerged that Young was already subject to a suspended sentence for previous convictions, with a criminal record containing offences such as battery, theft, harassment, and possession of a bladed item. This background played a significant role in the sentencing decision, as the court sought to reflect both public protection concerns and the need for deterrence.
As part of the outcome, Judge Porter-Bryant issued a restraining order barring Young from making contact with his victim or entering the Bettws area. This measure is intended to provide the victim with some reassurance and protection going forward, amid ongoing worries about personal safety.
For the charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, Young received a substantial sentence consisting of five years and nine months behind bars, with a further two years to be served on extended licence upon release. This extended sentence is a reflection of the seriousness of the offence and Young’s previous history with the criminal justice system.
Assaults of this nature, particularly those causing disfigurement, highlight persistent concerns about violent crime within communities and the challenges faced by courts in balancing rehabilitation and public safety. The case also points to broader societal issues, including the impact of substance abuse and mental health on behaviour, and how these factors complicate both legal proceedings and prospects for rehabilitation.
The scars left by this attack are not only physical but psychological, with the victim now enduring ongoing anxiety. Meanwhile, the court’s decision aims to send a clear message regarding the consequences of violent offences, particularly those resulting in life-altering injuries.