Man Jailed For Gravesend Taxi Driver Attack.

8 March 2010, 18:21 | Updated: 8 March 2010, 18:30

23 year old Mark Heanan must serve at least 3 years, 7 months and 7 days for the assault.

Mark Heanan from Edenbridge was given an indeterminate sentence at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday having pleaded guilty to wounding with intent.

The judge told him he must serve a minimum of 3 years, 7 months and 7 days.

Gordon Bailey, a 64 year old taxi driver, was attacked in Paddock Wood in July 2009.

Heanan and a friend had been driven to Paddock Wood from Gravesend.  As they reached their destination Heanan climbed into the front of the taxi and demanded the keys from the driver.

When he was refused he carried out his attack.  He then ran from the scene with the taxi takings for the evening, leaving his victim with serious facial injuries.

Detective Sergeant Miles Bishop said:

"This was a vicious, prolonged and cowardly attack. Mr Bailey was in no position to defend himself yet Heanan continued the assault with the intention of causing him serious harm"

"Mr Bailey suffered serious injuries; it is to his credit that he has been able to assist our investigation and help us produce the evidence that has put Heanan behind bars."