Violent offender jailed following Dartford assault

A violent offender who used his car to target a victim in Dartford has been jailed.

Connor Appleton was sentenced to five years and one month in prison following the incident in Spital Street on 25 November 2023.

At around 3.30am, Appleton was driving his car when he got into a dispute with a group of women who were walking past. The argument escalated and he got out of his car with a metal bar and approached the group.

Metal bar

He then struck his first victim over the head causing her to fall to the ground. When members of the public attempted to intervene, Appleton swung the metal bar towards them.

Following the assault, Appleton got back into his car and drove it aggressively, turning towards and striking a man on foot.

Both victims sustained injuries requiring medical treatment and were taken to a local hospital.

Officers attended Appleton’s home address in Wall Close, Rochester, where he was arrested at around 5.30am the same morning.

The 27 year old was charged with driving a motor vehicle dangerously, affray, attempt to cause grievous bodily harm with intent, possession of an offensive weapon, inflicting grievous bodily harm.

Guilty

He pleaded guilty to the offences and was sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court on Thursday 4 June 2026.

Detective Sergeant Emily Matthews said: ‘Appleton’s level of aggression and violence left both of his victims with significant injuries; his actions were excessive and entirely unacceptable.

‘By raising additional issues after pleading guilty, he drew out the process for a further seven months which caused additional unnecessary stress and anxiety for his victims who had already been through so much.

‘I hope the sentence imposed brings some closure to the victims, who had to relive this traumatic incident throughout the trial.’