Man jailed after 'vicious' street attack

A man who took part in a "vicious" street attack in Moray that left his victim with potentially life-threatening injuries has been jailed for more than five years.

Brandon Ainsworth, 22, admitted his role in the assault in September 2022 in Buckie.

The victim was left with a serious head injury and facial fractures that required an operation to his jaw.

Ainsworth originally faced a charge of attempted murder, but admitted assault to severe injury, permanent impairment and disfigurement and to the danger of life. He was jailed for five years and one month.

At the High Court in Edinburgh, judge Lady Ross said Ainsworth had repeatedly punched Barry Newlands, held him down and repeatedly kicked his head and body in a "sustained and vicious assault".

Defence solicitor advocate Michael Chapman said: "Mr Ainsworth became involved in what has to be conceded was a violent and serious assault."

He said Ainsworth had expressed regret for what happened to the victim and appreciated the impact the incident had on him.

The judge said: "You ran away, leaving your victim unconscious and very seriously injured. You had put his life in danger and did nothing to help him."

Lady Ross added: "The reality is this is a very serious offence and a custodial sentence is necessary."

The victim, who was 23 at the time, has no recollection of the attack.