Man jailed after killing best friend with one punch

A man left his “best friend” to die alone on his kitchen floor after launching a fatal alcohol and cocaine-fuelled attack on him, a court has heard.

Christian Dean, 36, was found dead at his home on Graig Road in Ynyshir near Porth, Rhondda Cynon Taf on 26 June.

Mr Dean and Thomas Griffiths had been drinking at Mr Dean’s home when the defendant, who had boxing experience, launched an “explosive” punch before leaving the scene.

At Cardiff Crown Court on Thursday, Griffiths, 34, who pleaded guilty to manslaughter, was jailed for 11 years on the basis he killed his friend with a single punch.

The cause of death was a bleed to the brain caused by trauma such as a punch.

Griffiths, from Riverside Close, Ynyshir, in Rhondda Cynon Taf, also received an extended two-year licence period after.

In a victim impact statement, one of Christian’s brothers said: “Christian’s death has had a massive impact on my life.

“He made my life more interesting in the simplest of ways, from inviting me on local nights out to sharing joyful moments with his three children.

“His enthusiasm and support were vital in helping me manage my long-term depression, but since losing him, I have found myself sinking back into that darkness.”

Carole Rees KC, defending, said Griffiths changed his plea to guilty after being presented with the evidence in the case.

“This was someone who was one of his closest friends, the defendant could not believe he had done it,” she said.

Ms Rees said Griffiths had “no recollection” of what had happened, but had written a letter of remorse to the court.

Being sober had led to “clear-minded thinking” about what happened, she added.

South Wales Police’s Det Ch Insp Matt Davies said after the case: “We hope that today’s sentencing provides some measure of justice and allows the family to begin healing.

“The tragedy of Christian’s death serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of violence and the far-reaching effects it can have on families and communities.

“As Griffiths begins his sentence, the legacy of Christian will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.”