A teenager who broke into a home and assaulted the resident with a candle holder has been put behind bars for seven years.

The 17-year-old, who cannot be named, had entered the property in Christina Road, Witham, on May 7, when he was disturbed by the person who lived there at around 1.20pm.

He tried to flee, but the victim, a man in his 30s, tried to stop him.

During a struggle the teenager bit the victim before striking him over the head with the metal candle holder five times, leaving him with deep cuts.

The victim managed to get out of the property and call for help.

The teenager was arrested a few days later, and charged with burglary and grievous bodily harm.

He admitted burglary but pleaded not guilty to GBH with intent – but was convicted after a trial at Chelmsford Crown Court.

Yesterday, Thursday, October 12, he was sentenced to a total of seven years’ detention.

Detective Constable Greg Najdan, investigating officer, said: “This 17 year-old not only invaded the victim’s personal space but then assaulted him with a weapon, leaving him with potentially serious injuries.

“Using such a level of violence on a whim is really concerning and I’m glad we’ve been able to bring him to justice.

“I hope he uses his time in detention to consider the consequences of his actions.

“I want to praise the courage of the victim throughout the investigation and court process.

“I hope this sentence provides him with some solace.”