Isle of Wight man jailed after 'karate kicking' his own mother

Joshua William Green, 30, of Yarborough Road, East Cowes, appeared at the Isle of Wight Crown Court on Friday for sentencing.

Green admitted assault by beating, criminal damage and possession of a Class B drug on July 5.

The court heard how Green had consumed four pints of lager at a family meal and a further 70cl of vodka at home, embarked on a tirade of abuse and threats toward his mother, demanding money so he could pay off his debts.

An argument ensued, in which an erratic Green threatened to go to a nearby shop and chop people's heads off.

He called his mother evil and disgusting, and said his father had died to get away from her.

He karate-kicked her in the leg, before swirling a knife around the room saying he was going to kill her, and hitting her hand with the knife ­— the blade covered.

Green, who has an extensive list of previous convictions, then proceeded to throw items around the room, damaging the fireplace, windows and a chest of drawers.

Lucy Conroy, prosecuting, said the mother's health had deteriorated as a result of her son's behaviour. She feels depressed and terrified and believes her son is capable of killing her.

Upon a search of the house Green shares with his mother, a small wrap of cannabis was found on the living room floor.

Graham Gilbert, defending Green, said his client was a young man who wished to improve himself and his behaviour.

He said there was a trigger in September when Green found a man in a cemetery who had killed himself by hanging ­— which reminded him of when his father died of a heart attack.

"Mr Green drinks as a coping mechanism, but is keen to address his issues and the impact drink has on him," said Mr Gilbert.

"He hopes to use his new-found sobriety to find employment."

Green, who breached a suspended sentence issued on January 30 for possession of a knife in a public place and using threatening words or behaviour, was sentenced to eight months in custody.