Teenager slapped man after alleged umbrella attack

Troy Toynbee, 19, of Eastgate, Sleaford, admitted common assault on a man in London Road, Grantham, on April 21.

Prosecuting, Daniel Pietryka told Grantham magistrates yesterday (Monday) it was 1pm when Toynbee saw the couple. The victim, who had learning difficulties and was with his female partner, was approached by Toynbee who slapped him on the back of the head.

Mr Pietryka said there was no physical injury but the victim was shocked and suffered some temporary pain. He said Toynbee claimed his brother had been assaulted by the victim’s partner with an umbrella and that was why he had slapped the man.

Chris Pye-Smith, defending, said Toynbee did not know his victim had learning difficulties. He said there had been an incident previously in which his brother was allegedly assaulted with an umbrella. He said Toynbee ran past his victim and slapped him with an open hand to the back of the head.

Mr Pye-Smith said it was ‘an unpleasant’ incident but not one which would be expected to cause injury. He said Toynbee had written a letter which was passed to the police apologising for his behaviour.

The court was told Toynbee was receiving mental health support in Grantham but had not been able to attend recently because he was on police bail which did not allow him to enter the town.

Mr Pye-Smith said: “He knows he has done a very foolish thing. He is remorseful about it.”

The magistrates handed Toynbee a conditional discharge for six months. He was ordered to pay compensation of £50 together with costs of £85 and a victim surcharge of £20.