Ryan Mangan, 31, avoided jail after punching a stranger, causing a brain bleed at Heaven nightclub in Huyton on Valentine’s Day.
Mangan replied using harsh language and punched Sixsmith’s face many times. Sixsmith fell, hitting his head hard against the wall and floor. Police reviewed CCTV footage, and someone anonymously identified Mangan. He admitted assault causing harm at court on Valentine’s Day.
The victim’s brain bleed was discovered by doctors via a CT scan, revealing cuts and swelling as well. He was released from the hospital but returned, feeling more pain. Another scan showed no new injury.
The victim stated that the attack changed him, making him realize how fragile life is. He thought he might die and felt weak afterward, still unable to remember the assault. For a year, he experienced headaches, sleep issues, and mood changes that impacted his family.
Mangan’s lawyer spoke about his client, noting that he is 31, has kids, and holds a job. Mangan feels sorry, claiming he did not mean to hurt anyone and felt awful learning what happened. He drank too much and overreacted, acting out of character.
The judge addressed Mangan, acknowledging that the victim was celebrating and even helped Mangan’s drunk girlfriend. However, Mangan lost his temper and punched the victim’s head, causing him to fall and hit his head, resulting in a brain bleed. The judge recognized that Mangan did not plan such harm and accepted that he was drunk and feels regret.
The judge sentenced Mangan to 10 months in prison, suspended, along with rehabilitation, unpaid work, and £1,000 in compensation to the victim. The incident occurred in Huyton.