A father who verbally and physically abused his gay son is facing an immediate jail sentence if he refuses to take legal advice.
Jeremy Smith admitted assault by beating at an earlier hearing when it was claimed he had shouted: “come on gay boy, I’ll show you how to be a man,” during a row with his grown-up son who consequently suffered bruising to his arms and redness to his face.
The row is said to have started after a business disagreement over the phone where Smith alleged his son had stolen money from the family firm.
Smith, who had chosen to represent himself at the hearing, was told by deputy district judge David Chapman: “you’ve chosen not to be represented and I am thinking of sending you to jail, do you want a solicitor?” He added, “Otherwise I shall send you to prison.”
Smith later opted to get legal advice.
Sentencing was adjourned until 6 January, when Smith will appear back before Worcester magistrates.