Michael Anthony Garratt has jail term cut

Michael Anthony Garratt, 24, of Great Lee, Walk Rochdale has had his jail sentence cut from 21 months to 15 months.

Garratt was jailed at Bolton Crown Court in January after he admitted possessing cocaine and cannabis as well as admitting to a count of criminal damage. His sentence also included the activation of a previous suspended term imposed for assault causing actual bodily harm against a pub landlord.

The court heard how the assault occurred in December 2011 when Garratt and his gang attacked the landlord of a pub in Bury when he tried to eject them.

The attack included kicks and punches and Garratt pulling on the landlord’s beard. As a result of the attack, the landlord suffered from a number of bruises and lacerations.

The drug offences stemmed from an incident in which police were called to Garratt’s home based on his girlfriend's fears of his erratic behaviour.

When officers arrived, Garratt was sleeping and as he flung the duvet off of himself, a small bag of drugs fell to the floor. He initially blamed the drugs on his girlfriend but eventually admitted his guilt, expressing remorse.

The criminal damage offence came after Garratt threw a brick into a window following a row with his girlfriend.

His case reached the Appeal Court yesterday (Wednesday 14 May) as his lawyers challenged his overall sentence.

During the appeal, Garratt was described as “polite and respectful” except when in drink.