A SELF-STYLED debt collector from Exeter, has been ordered to pay compensation to a mechanic who he clubbed with an iron bar when he refused to repay a £3,000 debt owing for the purchase of expensive tools.
Former Royal Marine reservist Jonathan Gould pulled the 18-inch wrecking bar from his trousers and used it to hit victim Gary Clatworthy on the body and legs after pushing his way into his home. Gould, 45, admitted the attack after the prosecution dropped a more serious charge of aggravated burglary at his trial at Exeter Crown Court.
The court heard he went to Mr Clatworthy’s home in Exeter, armed with the bar after being asked to collect money outstanding on a credit agreement. The victim had bought an expensive set of tools but been unable to keep up the payments after losing his job.
Gould, also of Exeter, was found not guilty of aggravated burglary but admitted causing actual bodily harm. He was jailed for 12 months, suspended for two years, and ordered to pay £500 compensation and £5,000 costs to the victim.
