Timaru District Court,| September 30, 2025
A Geraldine man who stomped on another man’s head about ten times during a drunken brawl has avoided prison — instead receiving six months of home detention.
Benjamin Rod Sands, 25, appeared in the Timaru District Court on Thursday after pleading guilty to assault with intent to injure. Judge Dominic Dravitzki called it a “nasty assault” involving “prolonged and extreme violence.”
The attack happened at a Geraldine party on March 29. Sands, who had been drinking, refused to leave when asked around 11pm. The victim tried to walk him out, but a fight broke out in the driveway.
After others stepped in to separate them, Sands turned back when the victim thought another scuffle was starting and tried to intervene. Sands then kicked and stomped on his head about ten times, leaving him unconscious. The man was flown to Timaru Hospital with head injuries.
Judge Dravitzki said the attack targeted the victim’s head and continued while he was vulnerable on the ground.
“This was serious violence that could have had far worse consequences,” he said.
Sands had no prior convictions and was described as remorseful and “horrified” by his actions. References said the violence was out of character and that he was taking steps to manage his alcohol use.
Starting from 26 months in prison, the judge allowed modest reductions for remorse, character, and a guilty plea — reducing the term to 15½ months, short enough for home detention.
“The least restrictive sentence available is home detention,” the judge said.
Sands was also ordered to pay $2000 in emotional harm reparation to the victim.
The Paper 