Wrexham man sentenced after punch killed victim
Paul Ince was found guilty of manslaughter
A man's been jailed for the manslaughter of 59-year-old John Ithell in Wrexham.
31-year-old Paul Ince, of Cefn Road, Abenbury denied killing Mr Ithell, but a jury found him guilty of manslaughter following an eight-day trial at Mold Crown Court in October.
In the early hours of June 12, 2023, Ince punched John Ithell to the face in an unprovoked attack outside a block of flats in Pont Wen, Wrexham, where he fell backwards into a fence, hitting his head on the concrete floor.
He got up and walked away, but an hour later, at 2am, the police were called to Whitegate Industrial Estate following a report a man had been assaulted.
Officers located John, who declined medical help but allowed them to give him a lift near to his home close to Tan Y Coed Road.
At 6am that morning, a cyclist saw the victim lying in a bush on Redwither Lane and called an ambulance.
John was taken to hospital, where he was found to have suffered a severe fracture to the back of his head, caused by the punch earlier that morning. He died later that day, just hours after the assault.
Ince was jailed for eight years at Mold Crown Court today, Tuesday 18 November.
Speakling after sentencing, John's family said: “We, as a family, welcome today’s sentence. John, or Bronco as he was affectionately known to all was a loving father, grandfather, a very much-loved stepson, brother, and uncle.
"The emotional impact on our family cannot be underestimated, the violent and senseless manner of his death contributes to our trauma and deepens our grief.
"Life will never be the same for our family; we live with constant knowledge of the harm that was inflicted upon our brother. A life was lost, and we are glad to see the sentence reflecting the severity of the crime.
"We as Bronco’s family would like to extend our sincere thanks and gratitude to all our extended family, friends, and work colleagues for their love and support. Finally thank you to North Wales Police and the court for their invaluable support and navigation through this truly horrendous time”.
Detective Superintendent Christopher Bell said: “Our thoughts remain with John’s family today who remained courageous and dignified throughout the judicial process which Ince forced them to sit through when he refused to take responsibility for his actions.
“No result can compensate for the loss of life and the grief that has been caused, but I hope today’s sentence can bring them some closure as they continue to come to terms with their tragic loss.
“I would also praise the dedication of the investigation team and colleagues who worked incredibly hard to ensure justice was brought for John’s family.”
Detective Constable Katie Doyle added:“This case truly reflects the serious message that a single punch can kill.
“Ince acted recklessly and without provocation, which tragically had devastating and fatal consequences for John Ithell.
“We will not tolerate acts of violence and will continue to bring offenders to justice for their actions.”