Birmingham man, 41, who killed friend in brutal assault days before Christmas handed six-year jail term
A Birmingham man who assaulted a friend during a row, resulting in his victim dying two days later, has been locked up for the killing.
Andrew Behan admitted in court to the manslaughter of Francis Leitner who died in hospital two days before Christmas last year.
Behan and Mr Leitner had been to an off-licence in Kingstanding to buy alcohol on the afternoon of December 21, and Behan was seen to headbutt the other man outside the shop.
The pair then took a taxi back to a property in Witton where Behan's assault on Mr Leitner continued, with him grabbing his victim's phone and punching him.
The 45-year-old was taken to hospital where he was found to have a large bleed on his brain, and died from his injuries on Monday, December 23.
In tribute to Mr Leitner his family said: "We are still in disbelief, deeply saddened and hope that justice will be served."
Behan, aged 41, of Wyrley Road, Birmingham, was arrested and charged. At a hearing at Birmingham Crown Court on Friday (November 21) he pleaded guilty to manslaughter and yesterday (Wednesday) he was jailed for six years and seven months.
Detective Inspector Michelle Cordell, from West Midlands Police's Homicide team, said: "The violence Andrew Behan used against Francis Leitner that day was unnecessary, and sadly ended his life. Our thoughts remain with Francis’ family and loved ones and I hope today’s sentence offers comfort to them, as they navigate their future without him."
