Teenagers jailed for nightclub attack

Cousins who attacked two men in an act of "revenge" at a nightclub have each been jailed for four years.

Joseph and Kyle Bennett, both aged 19, kicked and punched Josh Muhlenboch and Ross Mallard, who were out with friends at JB's in Dudley last July.

Mr Mallard had two teeth knocked out in the attack and was left with a shoe imprint on his back, while Mr Muhlenboch was left with cuts and bruises. Miss Alka Brigue, prosecuting, told Wolverhampton Crown Court yesterday that trouble flared at the popular nightspot in Castle Hill after Kyle Bennett and Mr Muhlenboch bumped into each.

"Kyle punched Josh to the face causing his nose to bleed," she said. "Josh was surprised and fell back and then tried to leave the club."

Miss Brigue said the pair, who used to be friends, had fallen out in December, 2008.

She said Kyle Bennett, of Compton Road, Netherton, also attacked Mr Muhlenboch outside the club before he was joined by his cousin Joseph Bennett. The pair then laid into Mr Mallard.

"Joseph punched Ross to the face and he fell to the floor," Miss Brigue said. "Other people joined in."

Police officers were called and the Bennetts were arrested at the scene. Miss Brigue told the court that Kyle Bennett told police in interview that he had attacked the pair out of revenge.

Mr Nicholas Smith, defending Kyle Bennett, said his client was sorry for his actions. "He is a fairly immature young man," Mr Smith said. "He has an eight month old baby and wants to see him grow up. He is sorry for what he did."

Mr Eugene Hickey, defending Joseph Bennett, of Exeter Road, Netherton, added: "He is only 19. He recognises what he did was wrong and accepts full responsibility.

"He had drunk a bottle of vodka and several lagers that night."

Both men admitted two counts of wounding with intent and a charge of assault.