Father and son, Scott and Kurtis Ball, were involved in a violent altercation at the Eli Jenkins pub in Swansea after being told they couldn’t take their pints outside onto the pavement. Scott Ball wielded a rock in a sock as a weapon, while Kurtis Ball headbutted the landlord during the incident, asserting their right to drink wherever they pleased. This confrontation unfolded following Scott Ball’s previous bail for racially abusing and chasing students in Swansea armed with a knife.
The court heard that the Balls entered the pub and ordered drinks, but when told they couldn’t take them outside, a heated argument ensued. Scott Ball threatened to stab people and swung the rock in a sock at staff members, causing chaos. Fellow customers attempted to intervene, resulting in physical altercations and injuries. Eventually, the pair were ejected from the premises, with Scott Ball displaying aggressive behavior by throwing a glass towards a customer.
Scott Ball, with a history of numerous previous offences, including possession of weapons, was sentenced to 14 months in prison for affray and possession of an offensive weapon. On the other hand, Kurtis Ball, with a record of offenses such as drug possession and assault, received a suspended prison sentence and was ordered to complete a rehabilitation course and perform community work.
Scott Ball’s lawyer acknowledged his client’s extensive criminal record, while Kurtis Ball’s representative highlighted his troubled past, attributing his involvement in the incident partially to loyalty to his father. The judge commended Kurtis Ball’s potential for rehabilitation and decided not to enforce his sentence immediately, encouraging him to make better choices.
This incident at the Eli Jenkins pub underscores the seriousness of the charges faced by the Balls and the impact of their actions on others present. The court’s decision to hand down sentences reflects the gravity of their behaviour and the need for accountability in such violent encounters.