A man in Wales has been banned from all pubs in the region after a violent incident. Julio Waters, together with his father Wayne, attacked a bar staff member in Neath, causing injuries and significant dental expenses. This assault occurred after Julio had previously headbutted a customer and was banned from the pub.
According to Swansea Crown Court, Julio Waters, aged 39, has a history of violence in pubs across Neath and Swansea and had previously been banned from all licensed premises in Neath Port Talbot. The judge, in sentencing Julio for the recent assault, noted his threat to both bar staff and patrons. By banning him from all licensed premises in Wales, the judge expressed concern about merely shifting the problem to England.
Prosecutor Dean Pulling told the court that the initial assault happened outside the Ambassador Hotel in Neath in August 2024. Waters approached a group outside the bar and without provocation headbutted and punched a man before walking away. A staff member witnessed the attack and called for help, staying with the injured man until paramedics arrived. Waters later tried to tamper with potential CCTV footage of the incident.
Further investigations revealed Julio Waters as the attacker, leading to his ban from the venue. Waters and his father, Wayne, were confronted at the Ambassador on May 23, where Wayne threatened and physically assaulted a security guard. The pair then engaged in a violent altercation, with Julio landing several punches on the victim before fleeing the scene.
Following their arrest and subsequent interviews where both remained silent, Julio Waters admitted to two counts of assault causing bodily harm. Wayne Waters, with a history of 15 offenses, including a prior ABH charge, also admitted to his involvement in the incident. Julio’s lawyer mentioned his client’s efforts to address alcohol issues, while Wayne’s representative highlighted his health problems and regret for his actions.
Judge Paul Thomas KC deemed Julio Waters a danger to pub staff and customers, sentencing him to 27 months in prison without suspension. Waters will serve at least half of the sentence in custody and the rest in the community, with a two-year ban from all licensed premises in Wales. Wayne Waters received a 12-month suspended sentence, counseling, and a compensation order for his role in the assault.
The judge advised Wayne to reflect on his behavior’s impact on his son and to take responsibility for setting a positive example. He emphasized the need for Wayne to address his actions and avoid further involvement in criminal activities.