Frederick Anthony Swann was today sentenced to four years in prison for the brutal beating of Damon Robinson outside Champions bar.

Mr. Robinson was in a coma for a week as a result of the August 15, 2009, beating. He still has nerve damage around his mouth due to his jaw being broken in the attack.

Swann, who was found guilty of intent to do grievous bodily harm, begged Supreme Court Judge Charles-Etta Simmons for leniency this afternoon.

He said he never meant to harm Mr. Robinson and had prayed for his swift recovery when he learnt the extent of his injuries.

But Mrs. Justice Simmons said that while Swann may not have been the instigator of the fight, or perpetrator of some of the injuries inflicted on Mr. Robinson, he did choose to get involved. In particular she noted that he punched Mr. Robinson in the head from behind despite knowing the victim was “staggering drunk”.

Throughout the trial the Crown pointed to Jermaine Simmons, and not Swann, as the main attacker.

Mr. Simmons fled the country the day after the attack. He is currently behind bars in the United States, awaiting trial for drug charges.

For the full story read tomorrow’s Royal Gazette.