A 39-year-old has been handed a suspended sentence after an assault left his victim with a cracked rib and split lip.

Mark Jeffrey Edward Howarth had denied assault causing actual bodily harm (ABH), but was found guilty after a summary court trial.

Deputy High Bailiff Rachael Braidwood sentenced him to six months’ custody, suspended for two years.

He was also ordered to pay £1,975 prosecution costs, plus £1,000 compensation to the victim.

A 12 month restraining order has also been issued, prohibiting Howarth from contacting the victim.

The offence was committed on June 1, in 2025, at an address at Mount Murray.

Howarth was said to have punched the man a number of times to the head and body, including while he was on the floor.

He had argued self-defence at his trial, but that was rejected.

Appearing for sentencing recently, Howarth, who lives at Ballanoa Meadows in Santon, was represented by advocate Jim Travers.

Mr Travers said that the incident had occurred during the breakdown of the defendant’s marriage, and that Howarth had had to endure 17 months on bail under restrictive conditions.

The advocate said that his client had endured a lot of mental health anguish during that time, but had managed to retain his employment, despite the stress.

Mr Travers said that the assault had been relatively short in duration, and once the victim had got to his feet and indicated a willingness to leave, he had left.

‘There’s no doubt Mr Howarth’s rational thinking had been skewed by the toxic and turbulent background,’ said the advocate.

Mr Travers referred to a probation report which assessed his client as a low risk of reoffending.

Howarth agreed to pay the costs and compensation at a rate of £250 per month.