Road raging driver who broke another motorist's cheekbone is jailed for more than a year

A road rager has been thrown behind bars after an incident left another motorist with serious facial injuries.

Archie Phillips, 22 from Braintree Road, Wymering, was sentenced at Portsmouth Crown Court on June 19 after admitting causing grievous bodily harm without intent.

The court heard that around 5pm on July 2 last year in Hythe Road, Paulsgrove, a 57-year-old man was driving with his wife and her sister when he stopped his car as the road narrowed to a single lane.

An oncoming driver allowed him to pass, but Phillips, who was driving behind, became angry and shouted at him as both vehicles continued towards the junction of Allaway Avenue and Service Road.

Phillips then pulled alongside the victim's car, got out of his vehicle and approached the driver's side door. He tried to open the door before shouting racial abuse at the driver. He then reached through the open window, grabbed the man by his shirt and punched him in the face.

The victim suffered a fractured cheekbone, extensive facial bruising and endures ongoing problems with his vision. His vehicle was also damaged during the attack.

Phillips left the scene but was later identified following an investigation by Portsmouth District Investigations Team. He was arrested, charged and subsequently pleaded guilty.

The officer in charge of the case said: “Phillips caused serious injuries to an innocent man who was just trying to go about his day, and he deserves to face jail time for his vile behaviour. This was an act of unnecessary and unacceptable violence that will not be tolerated in Portsmouth.

“We will continue to pursue anyone who harms, or threatens the safety of, those who live in and visit our city, and we will ensure they are put before the courts to face justice for their actions.”

Phillips was sentenced to 16 months in prison, and made subject to a restraining order that prevents him from contacting the victim and two witnesses.