Mike Amesbury, the former Labour Member of Parliament for Runcorn and Helsby, received a ten-week jail sentence for assaulting a man during a drunken altercation in the street. Deputy Chief Magistrate Tan Ikram delivered the ruling at Chester Magistrates’ Court. He described the incident as a “drunken brawl” that stopped only when bystanders intervened.
Amesbury, 55, pleaded guilty to assaulting 45-year-old Paul Fellows on Main Street in Frodsham, Cheshire, in the early hours of October 26. Judge Ikram noted that Mr. Fellows showed no aggression and did not retaliate against Amesbury. The judge emphasized that the assault was unprovoked.
Judge Ikram explained that the immediate custodial sentence served both as punishment and deterrence. He stated that Amesbury’s drunken state could not excuse his actions. As an elected representative, he should expect robust challenges from constituents. The judge condemned the former MP’s behavior, saying, “You continued the attack while the victim was on the ground. This incident may not have ended if bystanders hadn’t intervened.”
After the verdict, two dock officers escorted Amesbury out of the courtroom. He appeared not to have brought any personal belongings, as he was set to go directly to HMP Altcourse in Liverpool. Following his removal, Amesbury’s attorney, Richard Derby, requested the judge to reconsider bail. However, Judge Ikram returned to the court and stated, “Application refused.”
The court heard details of the events leading to the assault. Amesbury had been drinking before arriving at a taxi rank. There, he encountered Mr. Fellows, who approached him to discuss a local bridge closure. Eyewitness footage captured Amesbury punching Mr. Fellows in the head, knocking him to the ground. Despite being vulnerable, Amesbury followed and struck him at least five more times. He taunted Mr. Fellows, saying, “You won’t threaten your MP again, will you?”
This incident has sparked considerable backlash. Many view it as unacceptable behavior for an elected official. Constituents have expressed disappointment, noting that MPs should set a positive example. The fallout from this case may resonate within political circles, raising questions about accountability and the expected conduct of public figures.
As news of Amesbury’s sentencing spreads, it reminds us of the consequences of unchecked aggression. It highlights the importance of maintaining decorum, especially among those in public service. The case has also reignited discussions about the impact of alcohol on behavior and the responsibilities of elected officials to uphold the law.
