Askam Man Jailed for 18 Months After One-Punch Attack On Man in His 70s

Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Monday 14th April 2025 at 19:20hrs

A 33-year-old man from Askam-in-Furness has been sentenced to 18 months in prison today (Monday, April 14th) after being convicted of grievous bodily harm (GBH).

Daniel Rhodes, of Marsh Street, Askam-in-Furness, was found guilty following a trial at Preston Crown Court earlier this year, on February 24th.

Rhodes had denied the offence, which occurred on December 23rd, 2022.

The court heard that the victim, a man in his 70s, was parked when he witnessed two vehicles attempting to drive the wrong way up a one-way street.

Rhodes was driving the first vehicle, and his then partner was driving the second.

As the second vehicle passed, the victim attempted to inform them of their error.

Rhodes then stopped his car, exited, and approached the victim. The court was told that the victim turned to see Rhodes approaching and was then punched in the face by Rhodes, causing him to fall backwards and strike his head on the ground.

As a result of the assault, the elderly victim suffered a cut to his cheek from the punch and a cut to the back of his head from the fall. He was subsequently taken to hospital suffering from neck pain and was diagnosed with a significant upper-spine injury, the effects of which continue to impact his life.

Following the incident, Rhodes was arrested. He told officers that he had not thrown a punch but had accidentally bumped into the victim while trying to intervene between him and the vehicle.

Despite his denial, Rhodes was convicted by a jury and today faced sentencing at Preston Crown Court, where he was handed an 18-month custodial sentence.

Detective Constable Paris Cross of Cumbria Police commented on the sentencing, stating:

“Nationwide, we have seen many examples where a single punch assault can have horrific and even tragic consequences.”

“In this instance, the victim of the assault remains impacted by the actions of Rhodes to this day,” DC Cross added.

“As such we welcome the significant custodial sentence and hope that it serves as a warning to anyone who thinks it is an option to resolve a disagreement with their fists.”