Woman avoids jail after hitting man with a baseball bat

Footage of Emily Barrass shouting in Oakenshaw Court, Wyke, Bradford, and then wielding the bat was played at Bradford Crown Court.  

Barrass, the mother of a young child, then drove at a male blocking her path in the road, striking him on the knees before leaving the scene. 

She pleaded guilty to having the bat without lawful authority or reasonable excuse in a public place, namely Oakenshaw Court, on July 3. 

Barrass, 27, of Bramhope Road, Cleckheaton, also admitted assault occasioning actual bodily harm and dangerous driving on the same date. 

The court heard that she was involved in an argument outside a public house at around midnight. She took the bat from her vehicle and swung it at the man, hitting him on the head and arms. 

She then got into her car and tried to leave the street but a man was in the road. 

Barrass drove into him, hitting him on the knees, before continuing on her way.  

The man she assaulted with the bat was left with bruising, the court was told. 

Barrass was of previous good character and the sole carer for her young child, the court heard. 

Her barrister, Erin Kitson-Parker, said in mitigation that there was some degree of mental health problems.  There was also a background to the offending that wasn’t outlined in court. 

Barrass had been working for the Royal Mail for five years. Her role in the management team depended on the outcome of the case, Miss Kitson-Parker said. 

Recorder Sam Green KC said she assaulted a man with a bat causing bodily harm and then drove very badly. 

But she had strong personal mitigation, including a good work ethic and no previous convictions. 

Her probation officer said she was capable of rehabilitation and her child would suffer if she went to prison. 

Barrass also had the prospect of continuing with her employment, Recorder Green said. 

She was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, with 20 rehabilitation activity days. 

Barrass must pay £200 towards the prosecution costs. 

She was banned from driving for 12 months and until she passes an extended test. 

“Don’t let me down, I’m sure you won’t,” the recorder told her.