Jail for man who knocked woman out with bike wheel - when aiming at police

Reef Byfield, of Pen y Wern, Rhosllanerchrugog, appeared before Mold Crown Court for sentence on Thursday, having admitted a charge of wounding by inflicting grievous bodily harm.

He was handed a 16-month prison sentence.

The disorder took place in the Wern Las area of Rhosllanerchrugog on September 21, 2023, and involved up to 50 people in the street.

During the incident, Byfield took hold of a bicycle wheel and threw it across the street, striking the victim and closely missing a police officer, knocking the woman unconscious to the ground and injuring her head.

He had intended it to hit the police.

As a result of the disorder, three officers were assaulted and injured, while a further two sustained injuries.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Mark Griffiths said: “This was a shocking incident where a small number of officers were faced with an extremely hostile crowd whilst trying to go about their lawful duties.

“The violence left them in fear for their safety.

“Byfield’s contribution to the disorder led to a woman being knocked to the ground and sustaining injuries to her head, which could also have seriously injured one of the officers had it hit them.

“His behaviour that day was unacceptable, and I welcome the sentence rightly passed to him today. I hope it serves as a lesson for anyone foolish enough to consider taking part in this type of disorder in future.”