Swindon, UK — A New Year’s Eve celebration turned violent at a local Swindon pub, resulting in a guilty plea for assault by 41-year-old Artur Mieszczak. The incident, which took place on December 31, 2023, at the Goddard Arms Pub, came to a head when disagreements between patrons and a doorman escalated into physical violence.
Prosecutors shared in Swindon Magistrates Court that the confrontation began when Mieszczak, along with two companions, became boisterous, prompting the on-duty doorman to request that they moderate their behavior. Despite an attempt to resolve the issue through management, the situation deteriorated rapidly, leading to the group being asked to leave the establishment.
Reports confirmed that the doorman followed the men to the front door to ensure their departure. It was at this point that tensions peaked. Mieszczak confronted the doorman, culminating in him forcefully pushing the doorman back into the pub, where the altercation turned physical. Mieszczak not only punched the doorman repeatedly but also, according to CCTV footage, involved pulling his t-shirt over his head in the scuffle.
The violence didn’t end with Mieszczak; CCTV footage further showed one of Mieszczak’s friends joining in, striking the doorman in a rapid spree that lasted nearly a minute. This attack left the doorman requiring medical attention from Great Western Hospital due to a significantly swollen and disfigured nose. Though previously troubled by nose issues, the assault thankfully did not result in a break.
Legal proceedings revealed Mieszczak has a history marked by previous convictions, including seven for personal offenses. He remained silent during the initial police custody interview and was serving a suspended sentence for subsequent offenses at the time of his court appearance.
Addressing the court, the magistrate underscored the severity of Mieszczak’s actions, pointing out the potential lethal consequences of head injuries and highlighting the vulnerable position door staff occupy in nightlife venues. Despite the gravity of the offense and Mieszczak’s criminal record, the court determined that a community order was appropriate due to his guilty plea and noted progress in rehabilitation.
The final judgement handed down to Mieszczak included 100 hours of unpaid community service and completion of a previously existing order involving 12 additional hours. Moreover, Mieszczak was ordered to compensate the victim with £200. This decision reflects a nuanced consideration of multiple factors, including the accused’s cooperation with the court and ongoing corrective measures.
The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and often dangerous environment door personnel face in their roles, emphasizing the need for greater protection and awareness regarding the challenges associated with maintaining safety in social establishments.