A YOUNG Launceston man with a bad record for offences involving violence was jailed for 12 months at Truro Crown Court on Wednesday, May 20 for assaulting a Latvian man, causing him actual bodily harm, in Church Street, Launceston on December 8 last.

Judge Christopher Elwen told 21 year old Kes Leverett, of Kensey Place, Launceston: "Your record is hardly glowing as it includes nine offences of assault of one kind or another. You have a tendency to wander around with knives and use threatening words and behaviour towards others. This is a clear escalation of violent behaviour."

Philip Lee, prosecuting, said that Leverett was with Daniel French when they attacked 33 year old Alekandrs Naumovs. French was abusive and aggressive before he and Leverett attacked Mr Naumovs, kicking and punching him until he appeared to be unconscious. He suffered two black eyes and multiple cuts and bruises.

Another person has been dealt with for stealing a mobile phone and cash from his pockets.

Mr Lee added that French had absconded and a warrant was out for his arrest. The judge ordered that the 58 days Leverett had already spent in custody should count towards his sentence.