Man Jailed After Attacking Woman In Pub

A man from Braybrooke who seriously assaulted a woman after she ended their relationship has been jailed for 20 months.

Kieran Smith attacked her in a pub in Rothwell in May 2021, punching her several times causing serious facial injuries, including a broken nose.

The 33-year-old of Desborough Road was arrested and released on bail pending further police enquiries, but then fled Northamptonshire.

In response, the Northamptonshire Police issued wanted appeals for him, including on the BBC’s Crimewatch Live, that prompted information to indicate he was in Blackpool, Lancashire.

Kieran Smith Pic: Northants Police

He went on to be arrested in the seaside town in the summer of 2023, after which he was charged with Section 20 – wound/inflict grievous bodily harm without intent.

Due to go on trial, Smith then entered a guilty plea to the charge in March last year, but in June he failed to appeal at court, resulting in a further charge against him.

Smith, of Desborough Road, Braybrooke, appeared at Northampton Crown Court for sentencing, where he was jailed for a total of 20 months.

He was also made subject to a three-year restraining order preventing him from contacting his former partner by any means.

Speaking afterwards, investigating officer Detective Constable David Bastuba said: “First and foremost, I want to thank the victim in this case, who was brave enough to both disclose what Smith did to her, and to remain supportive of our investigation despite him going to considerable lengths to try and avoid justice.

“Kieran Smith knew he was a wanted man and probably thought fleeing the county would put paid to our efforts to find him, but thanks to our persistence and the people who did the right thing and called in with information, he has been brought to account for his unacceptable violence.

“I hope his prison sentence brings closure and peace to this brave woman, who showed courage and determination throughout the justice process.

“She is supportive of us publicising this case to help demonstrate to others suffering domestic abuse that help is out there, and I wish her all the best for a bright future free of Kieran Smith.”