Man who assaulted partygoer to serve 4 to 6 years in prison
NEW PHILADELPHIA (WJER) (Sept. 18, 2024) – The assailant in a violent attack in New Philadelphia last year may be regretting his decision to take the case to trial.
Jerry Davis will spend the next four to six years in prison for felonious assault. Assistant Tuscarawas County Prosecutor Fred Scott recommended the punishment for the 52-year-old, who previously rejected a plea deal that would have significantly reduced his sentence.
“While the victim may have his issues, he’s a chronic alcohol who did not pose a great threat to Mr. Davis, and he suffered serious physical harm, almost lost his life.”
The December 28th incident followed an argument between the two men at a house party where both had been consuming alcohol and resulted in a 12-day hospital stay.
“I’m really sorry about what happened, and I’m hoping [the victim]… gets better,” Davis said.
Davis’ criminal history includes convictions for disorderly conduct, contempt of court, menacing, and misdemeanor assault.
“There is a clear pattern of substance abuse, and substance abuse which kind of leads to angry behavior,” Scott said.
Common Pleas Court Judge Elizabeth Thomakos doled out the punishment, saying she hoped he would make better choices in the future.