A British politician admitted guilt on Thursday for assaulting a man during a street confrontation that was recorded on video.
Mike Amesbury, 55, who is a Member of Parliament, faced disciplinary measures from the ruling Labor Party after the altercation that occurred on October 26. He admitted to assaulting a 45-year-old individual named Paul Fellows in Chester Magistrates’ Court.
According to prosecutor Alison Storey, the incident happened in Frodsham, located in northwest England. Amesbury punched Fellows in the head on the sidewalk after the latter expressed concerns about a bridge that had been closed. Following the initial punch, Amesbury reportedly struck Fellows at least five additional times while Fellows was already on the ground, despite bystanders urging him to stop.
In footage that circulated on social media, Amesbury could be heard shouting at Fellows, “You won’t ever threaten me again, will you?”
It was noted that both men had been drinking earlier in the night before the confrontation took place in the early hours of the morning. Amesbury represents the constituency of Runcorn and Helsby, which includes the area where the incident occurred. Prior to the altercation, he had attended a meeting regarding community safety and policing.
District Judge Tanveer Ikram acknowledged that although Fellows did not suffer serious injuries, the multiple punches thrown by Amesbury would be considered an aggravating factor during sentencing, which is scheduled for February 24.
After the proceedings, Amesbury expressed deep remorse for what transpired, stating that he was “sincerely sorry” for the incident involving Fellows and called it “deeply regrettable.”
His defense attorney, Richard Derby, mentioned that any penalties Amesbury might face would not surpass the disgrace and humiliation that he has already experienced.