A man who launched a violent attack on an innocent pensioner has been jailed.
Morgan Rees, 21, of Middle Wallop, Stockbridge, was sentenced to three years and four months imprisonment after pleading guilty to Section 18 GBH at Salisbury Crown Court today.
On January 25, 2025, Rees was out drinking in Salisbury at various pubs and clubs and was involved in a disorder in Brown Street. Following the disorder, Rees remained in the area and appeared to have disagreements with a number of others before emptying bins and throwing rubbish around the street.
At around 3 am, Rees then opened the door to a vehicle which had pulled into a layby and began punching the driver before he pulled him out of the vehicle onto the ground, where he continued his attack, punching and kicking him multiple times. He then attempted to slam the car door, but jammed the victim’s legs, before getting into the driver’s seat and driving off in the vehicle, leaving his victim injured on the ground.
The victim, an 85-year-old man, described how the incident had impacted him in an impact statement read in court. He said, “I cannot for the life of me comprehend why this guy attacked me. I am a defenceless 85-year-old man who was sat in my van, minding my own business. Not every day, but quite often, I think about what happened to me that day.
“Every time I shave my face and look in the mirror, I have to always take care of myself because of the damage that was caused to my eye socket when I was smacked on the side of the head, pulled out the van and kicked.
“The memory is not a dim one and is still very real. It has frightened me off going to Salisbury, or anywhere in the evening, on my own again.”
T/Det Sgt Emma Fisher, of South CID, said: “This was an unprovoked, prolonged attack on an innocent member of the public. The level of violence inflicted on his victim by Rees is absolutely unacceptable, and I am pleased he has been jailed – this sentence reflects the severity of his actions and I hope it provides his victim with the opportunity to feel some form of closure.
“Violence of any kind will not be tolerated, and we will seek to put offenders before the courts immediately.”
As well as the prison sentence, Rees was also disqualified from driving for 32 months and ordered to pay a £228 surcharge.
Salisbury FC confirm their pre-season schedule ahead of next season
Work to improve Green Lane walking and cycling route in Salisbury set to start tomorrow
Over 1300 take part in School's Mini Marathon Event
Plans for new homes approved
Wiltshire PCC quits police air service board
Renewed appeal to find wanted man
NOMINATIONS OPEN: Local Hero Awards 2026
Join over 1,000 people at the Stars Appeal’s Walk for Wards to support Salisbury District Hospital
