A man allegedly assaulted his neighbor on the doorstep, causing injury, following an accusation of theft involving a broadband device. The victim now lives in fear, reluctant to answer the door or leave his home.
Khalid Miah, aged 36, reportedly attacked Richard Lydiard during a confrontation at Lydiard’s residence in Cilfynydd, Pontypridd, last December. Miah confronted Lydiard, claiming his broadband box was stolen and replaced with a faulty one.
During a court hearing at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court, it was revealed that Lydiard denied the theft accusation, leading to a physical altercation as Miah attempted to enter Lydiard’s flat forcibly.
Miah allegedly assaulted Lydiard, attempting to strike and kick him, before Lydiard managed to shut the door. Police were alerted, leading to Miah’s arrest. Despite denying the assault during police questioning, Miah later admitted to causing bodily harm.
Miah, residing in Heol Nant, Cilfynydd, pleaded guilty to assault causing actual bodily harm. His criminal record includes prior convictions for similar offenses.
In a statement read in court, Lydiard expressed shock and fear over the unprovoked attack, stating his reluctance to answer the door or leave his home. Sol Hartley, Miah’s defense attorney, attributed the incident to Miah’s delusional belief and underlying depressive condition.
Recorder David Harris sentenced Miah to 13 months in prison and imposed a five-year restraining order against him.