A BUSINESSMAN has been jailed after attacking a man with a crowbar. Ian Dcunha, 50, of Norton Road, Letchworth GC, who runs a painting and decorating business, was given an indeterminate sentence for public protection when he appeared for sentence at Luto

A BUSINESSMAN has been jailed after attacking a man with a crowbar.

Ian Dcunha, 50, of Norton Road, Letchworth GC, who runs a painting and decorating business, was given an indeterminate sentence for public protection when he appeared for sentence at Luton Crown Court on Monday.

Judge Jeffrey Burke QC said Dcunha posed a risk to the public because he had resorted to violence many years ago in circumstances where he had lost his temper.

He told Dcunha that he could apply for parole in two-and-a-half years time but it would not automatically be granted. He would be on licence for life.

Dcunha pleaded not guilty to wounding Robert Gray with intent on June 2 last year, but was convicted by a jury at Luton Crown Court in December last year.

George Heimler, prosecuting, told the jury that Mr Gray had done some work for Dcunha but was in dispute with him over some money and tax vouchers.

He said he was going to come to Dcunha's home to collect them and was warned not to.

On June 2 he drove to Letchworth but decided against going to the house when he saw a number of cars in the drive. However, Dcunha saw him slow down outside and decided to follow him.

He forced him to stop by cutting in front of him and then attacked him with the crowbar. He struck him twice on the head, causing two cuts that needed stitches.

Mr Gray had responded by brandishing a crook lock and pinning Dcunha down on the ground.

Dcunha denied having a weapon and claimed he was acting in self defence.

Miss Monali Raleraskani, defending, said Dcunha's previous convictions for assault were 20 years ago and as such did not mean he could be considered a risk to the public.

"Prison will be catastrophic for him, his business and his family. He has built up his business through long hours and hard work," she said.

"He was not acting his usual self that night and had been finding it somewhat difficult to deal with Mr Gray."

Judge Burke said: "You have been liable to explode into violence when crossed or when something happens about which you feel strongly.

"This was a serious and savage assault with a nasty weapon when you had completely lost your temper and were out of control. It could have caused a much more serious injury.