In Wantage, Richard and his son Shay Cassidy, from Swindon Road, Wroughton, were involved in an incident in November 2021 that led to legal proceedings. Richard Cassidy, 62, faced trial at Oxford Crown Court in June and was found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. His son, Shay Cassidy, 26, admitted to assault by beating at the start of the trial. On July 15, Richard was sentenced to four-and-a-half years in prison, while Shay received a 12-month conditional discharge.
The court heard that a verbal altercation arose between Richard Cassidy and a victim over unpaid wages from a bricklaying job, after which Shay assaulted the victim by pushing him twice. This escalated into a ground-level fight. Richard then intervened and struck another man over the head with a knife. The full extent of the injuries remains unclear as the victim left the country shortly after the incident.
This event has raised concerns within the Wantage community. Olly Glover, the MP for Wantage and Didcot, reassured residents by stating, “I am pleased that this violence has been dealt with by our police and justice system.” He noted that such attacks are infrequent in the area and expressed hope that the sentences would deter similar future actions.
Richard Cassidy’s legal representative, Kenniesha Stephens, mentioned his remorse for the incident, highlighting that it was his first time in custody at the age of 62. She described him as hard-working and usually a peacemaker, attributing his actions to losing his composure that day. Additionally, she referenced his past strokes and a condition related to dementia, as well as his partner’s ill health, which was affecting their personal plans.
Shay Cassidy, who had no prior convictions, was acknowledged by the court as recognizing his actions were wrong. Judge Hassan Khan described the incident as involving an argument over non-payment, followed by Shay’s assault and Richard striking another man with a bladed article. Shay was also mandated to cover costs amounting to £1,630, along with his conditional discharge.
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