Tonbridge man jailed after violent pub attack

Sonny Coster left his victim with multiple injuries after repeatedly striking him with empty half-pint glasses

Author: Cameron HallPublished 16th Apr 2024

A Tonbridge man's been jailed after a violent pub attack with half-pint glasses.

Sonny Coster repeatedly hit a man's head with the empty glasses at the Station House Pub on Barden Road on 3 December 2022.

The unprovoked attack began after several men were staring at him at Coster's victim, which made him feel uneasy.

Coster ran in from the pub garden after a fight started, and used the empty half-pint glasses to attack his victim.

He fled the scene along with others in his group after the attack.

His victim, who was unknown to him, was left with multiple injuries, including bleeds to his brain, broken teeth and ribs.

Coster, 22, of Scott Road, Tonbridge, was arrested on 28 February 2023 and charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

He pled guilty at Maidstone Crown Court, and was sentenced to four years and nine months in prison on 10 April 2024.

Coster will have to serve two-thirds of his sentence before being eligible for parole.

Detective Constable Hayley Campbell, who led the investigation said:

"Coster subjected his victim to a brutal and terrifying assault which could easily have had fatal consequences. He continued to rain blows upon the man even when he was lying unconscious.

"It was an entirely unprovoked attack which has had a profound and devastating impact on the victim. He has been left suffering several long-term injuries and continues to endure the psychological trauma resulting from this horrific ordeal.

"I’d like to personally thank the victim, for their patience, support, and courage in assisting our investigation and hope they are able take some comfort and reassurance now that Coster has now faced justice.

"The staff at the pub are to also be commended, for the swift and vital first aid they provided before paramedics and officers arrived at the scene."