Family Now Working With Lawyers In Battle To Support Rehabilitation And Long Term Care Needs

The uncle of a Rotherham man brutally assaulted with a sledgehammer handle, while he was having his hair cut in the summer, has spoken of his relief as the attackers were sentenced today – but added that his nephew’s life ‘will never be the same again’.

The uncle of a Rotherham man brutally assaulted with a sledgehammer handle, while he was having his hair cut in the summer, has spoken of his relief as the attackers were sentenced today – but added that his nephew’s life ‘will never be the same again’.

Ismail Hussain, 22, from Masbrough, suffered a life changing brain injury after he was attacked by brothers Shiraz and Shamas Ali on 5 August 2010.

Mr Hussain was having his hair cut at local barbers ‘Prince Cuts’ when he was attacked by the brothers. He was left with such severe injuries the barber had to use almost every towel in his shop to mop up the excess blood.

His injuries mean that he will need lifelong care and supervision and will most probably be unable to work in the future. His family have instructed brain injury specialists at Irwin Mitchell to help fight for funding to support Mr Hussain’s long term care and rehabilitation.

Head Injury Expert: "We'll Continue To Fight"

Caroline Jepson, a specialist lawyer in the head injury team at Irwin Mitchell, said: “Mr Hussain suffered serious brain injuries as a result of this brutal attack, and sadly this has changed his life forever.

“Amongst other things he now suffers from learning difficulties, memory loss, constant pain and mobility problems, and will need a high level of specialist care for the rest of his life.

“He was the victim of a vicious and brutal crime and deserves the best support and rehabilitation available. Irwin Mitchell is already working with the family to achieve this and will continue to fight on behalf of Ismail.”

Mr Hussain’s attackers, Shamas Ali, 20, and Shiraz Ali, 17, both from Masbrough, both pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm with intent at Sheffield Crown Court on 21 December 2010.

Shamas was sentenced to nine years imprisonment, while brother Shiraz received seven years.

Haroon Rashed, Ismail’s uncle, said he is relieved that his nephew’s attackers have been sentenced but remains concerned about the lasting effect the attack will have on Ismail’s life.

He said: “We are pleased that Ismail’s attackers have been punished for their crimes but nothing can ever be done to turn back time. We were devastated when we found out about the incident and our lives will never be the same.

“I went to the scene of the attack and can still remember seeing Ismail lying motionless and covered in blood. It was just horrendous and I am still having flashbacks of the scene now. 

“In a few years his attackers will be out of prison and will be able to enjoy a normal life, while Ismail is left fighting to overcome injuries which will last a lifetime. As a family we will do everything in our power to support him and care for him.”

If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of a violent assault,  our criminal injury solicitors  could help you  to secure compensation. See our Assault Compensation Claims page for more information.