Jack Jefferson of Harold Hill cleared of assault on Rise Park teen Jack Brown

A Harold Hill man jailed for an attack on Rise Park teenager Jack Brown has walked free after his conviction was overturned.

Jack Jefferson, 19, was found guilty in April of assaulting the 16-year-old by beating, following a trial at Romford Magistrates Court. He was sentenced to six months in prison in May.

But on Monday (June 18th). a judge at Snaresbrook Crown Court allowed an appeal against his conviction.

Speaking afterwards, Mr Jefferson, of Redruth Road, Harold Hill, told the Recorder: “I’m relieved, but I’m angry at the fact I spent a month in prison for nothing. It’s made me look like a bad person when I’m not.”

The plumbing student, who prior to the conviction was due to finish his course and start work with N-Power this month, says it may now be too late for him to take up the job offer.

“I could have lost out on a job I’ve been working all year for,” he said, “and if the conviction hadn’t been overturned I could have lost my flat.”

Mr Jefferson, who has a 20-month-old daughter, said he would now try to carry on with his training. “I’m going to try and get this course back on track,” he said. “If I can carry on with it, I’m going to do it.”