A nightclub doorman has been handed a suspended prison sentence for a vicious attack on a man during his company's Christmas night out, an assault described by a judge as an "abuse of a position of trust".
Christmas Celebration Turns Violent
The incident occurred in the early hours of 22 December last year at The Sugarmill nightclub on Brunswick Street in Hanley, Staffordshire. The victim, who had been enjoying a works Christmas party, was attacked by bouncer Jordan Shay, aged 32.
Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court heard that the altercation began after the victim made a remark as he left the venue. Witnesses stated there was "no suggestion of aggression" from the man, who was described as having drunk a lot, as is common on such festive nights out.
A Vicious Assault Caught on Camera
CCTV footage played in court revealed a disturbing sequence of events. Shay was seen first knocking the victim's drink from his hand. A colleague then escorted the man to a bin yard at the rear of the club, an area known to be out of sight of cameras.
Shay then jogged over to join them. As they returned into view, the court was told Shay's colleague boxed the victim's ears. Shay then slapped and punched the victim with such force that his own radio fell from his jacket.
In a particularly brutal moment, as the victim bent down to pick up the fallen walkie-talkie, Shay raised his leg and kicked him in the head. The impact knocked the man unconscious. Shay then placed him in the recovery position at the side of the road before walking away.
Lasting Injuries and Court Sentencing
The victim suffered significant injuries requiring hospital treatment. He sustained a fractured left cheekbone which needed surgery, and his eye remained bloodshot for around seven weeks. He also has a permanent scar on the back of his head and required months of follow-up treatment with doctors and opticians.
Shay, of Cleveland Road, Shelton, initially claimed self-defence, suggesting the kick was aimed at the radio. He later pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
In mitigation, his defence counsel said Shay was "deeply remorseful" and had lost all future prospects of working as a doorman. He cited personal struggles at the time, including a relationship breakdown.
On 30 December 2025, Judge Sally Hancox sentenced Shay to a two-year prison term, suspended for two years. He must also complete 120 hours of unpaid work, 20 rehabilitation activity days, and will be subject to three-monthly reviews.
Passing sentence, Judge Hancox condemned Shay's actions, stating: "Those given a position of responsibility by virtue of employment to protect people of this city must not be in a position to lose their temper with those they are supposed to protect." She concluded the "awful assault" was wholly out of character but a clear abuse of trust.
