Two men are facing significant prison sentences after a violent attack where they struck a peacekeeper with glass bottles outside a pub in Birmingham.
Violent disorder on Erdington High Street
The incident occurred on the afternoon of July 2, when a man attempted to calm an argument between 35-year-old Omar Clarke and a woman on Erdington High Street. Instead of de-escalating, Clarke turned on the Good Samaritan, pushing him and then striking him with a glass bottle.
Herbert Palmer, aged 59, who was nearby, then joined the assault. As the victim tried to walk away and defend himself, Palmer smashed a bottle over his head, causing injury.
CCTV evidence leads to guilty pleas
The attackers were captured on CCTV, and officers from West Midlands Police with local knowledge were able to identify them. Clarke and Palmer were subsequently arrested and charged.
Appearing at Birmingham Crown Court on Wednesday, January 7, both men entered guilty pleas. Omar Clarke, of Beech Dean Grove, pleaded guilty to Section 18 Grievous Bodily Harm and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place. Herbert Palmer, of Parkhouse Drive, pleaded guilty to Section 20 Grievous Bodily Harm.
Both men have been remanded in custody and are scheduled to be sentenced in March.
Police condemn serious violence
Detective Constable Amelia Rose, from Operation Fearless, stated: "The guilty plea reflects the gravity of the violence used and the serious long-term impact the attack has had. Grievous Bodily Harm is amongst the most serious violent offences and this outcome ensures both men will be held accountable for their actions."
Operation Fearless Detective Inspector Tom Lyons added: "Our team have maintained a presence in Erdington, using their impressive skills and unique knowledge to help tackle crime and bring offenders to justice. We’re still working hard with neighbourhood and response colleagues to prevent offences around Erdington High Street, and diligent investigative work here has seen two dangerous offenders removed from it."
