A man was left with serious head injuries after being attacked near a pub in Ottery St Mary.
Samuel Whitcombe's victim was walking along Brook Street and was approaching the rear of The King's Arms when Whitcombe came upon him. A verbal exchange between Whitcombe, 46, of Brook Street in Ottery St Mary, and his victim followed before Whitcombe pushed the other man into a wall, causing a significant head injury.
The attack happened on June 19, 2025. Police were informed that a man had been in cardiac arrest and had suffered a nasty head injury. Officers attended hospital, and the victim described how he had been assaulted.
As a result, officers attended Brook Street and viewed CCTV footage. CCTV from The Lamb and Flag identified Whitcombe as the attacker. He later attended Exeter Police Station and was arrested.
A search of Whitcombe's house found Class B drugs, for which he pleaded guilty to possessing.
As a result of the attack, Whitcombe's victim suffered a bleed on the brain, a bruise to the skull and a skin laceration. The victim continued to suffer strong headaches and leg tingling after the assault.
Whitcombe eventually pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm without intent in connection with last year's incident. He appeared before Exeter Magistrates' Court on Thursday, September 3 for sentencing and was given an eight-month sentence, suspended for 12 months. He must also complete a rehabilitation activity requirement and pay associated court costs.
Suspended Sentence for Assault Near Ottery St Mary Pub