Man jailed following violent assault in Sittingbourne

A man who tried to evade arrest by hiding beneath a pile of clothes has been jailed for a violent assault in Sittingbourne.

Nathan Austen attempted to conceal himself inside a property when officers attended to arrest him following an investigation into an attack that left a man with serious injuries.

However, officers spotted movement beneath the clothes and quickly detained him.

The assault took place on Friday 8 May 2026 after Austen became involved in a verbal altercation with the victim in Sittingbourne High Street. He threw several punches before following the man along the High Street towards Mill Way, where another fight took place.

During the attack, Austen bit the victim on the nose, causing significant injuries.

The 35 year old then left the scene. Officers carried out enquiries, including taking witness statements and reviewing CCTV footage, which led to Austen being identified as the offender.

On Monday 11 May, officers attended an address in Newbridge Road, Sittingbourne, where they found Austen attempting to hide beneath a pile of clothes. He was arrested and later charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

Austen, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to the offence.

At Maidstone Crown Court on Monday 12 October 2026, he was jailed for 3 years and 1 month.

Investigating officer Police Constable Caitlin Harding said:

‘Austen may have thought he could evade justice by hiding beneath a pile of clothes, but officers were not fooled.
‘Following a thorough investigation, we identified him as the person responsible for this violent assault and ensured he was brought before the court. This sentence reflects the severity of the injuries caused to the victim and demonstrates our commitment to pursuing offenders and protecting the public from violent crime.’