Rebuff by two women sees attacker run amok

An enraged man ran amok in a city centre attacking complete strangers as they left clubs in the early hours, a Black Country court heard.

Robert Rolls punched and kicked four revellers leaving one unconscious in the street before running away. He struck after his unwanted advances were rebuffed by two women outside a fast food shop in Wolverhampton. Rolls called them both derogatory names and launched a terrifying unprovoked assault after waiting for them to leave the premises.

Prosecutor Rhiannon Jones told Wolverhampton Crown Court Rolls spat at Leanne Cox, 19, and floored her with a punch in the face.

Kerry Walton, aged 25, was also knocked to the ground when she tried to help her injured friend.

Miss Jones added: “These were unprovoked attacks on the four victims.

“They had all been to a night club before leaving in the early hours and going to buy food from an outlet in Market Street.

“Leanne Cox and Kerry Walton were approached by Rolls. He walked between them and made a number of advances which were ignored,” she added.

“Jonathan Taylor saw the assault and tried to intervene. He was punched to the floor before being kicked unconscious,” she said.

“Luke Boden also attempted to help and was punched in the face before Rolls ran off,” she added.

The attacker was caught after a short chase and was “aggressive and agitated” towards the police officers who arrested him following the incident last October.

Sarah Buckingham, defending, said Rolls had undergone a brain operation and that a medical report might explain his behaviour.

Judge Nicholas Webb concluded yesterday: “He attacked four totally innocent people but clearly had medical problems at the time which could allow a wholly exceptional view to be taken.

“This is a very unusual case and the public need to understand what course may be taken. What you did would normally result in you being sent straight to prison. I am not promising that will not happen but the court has to look at all options.”

Rolls, from Charles Road, Quarry Bank, Dudley, who admitted three offences of battery and one of assault, was remanded on bail until June for reports.