by Hayley Robinson

A teenager told an undercover policeman how he had broken his best friend's arm and left him needing stitches.

Maidstone Crown Court heard how Buddy Ripley saw red when he discovered his victim was having a relationship with his 16-year-old sister.

After he was arrested and held on remand, the 19-year-old plotted with others to stop Jason Milner giving evidence against him.

Danny Moore, prosecuting, said Ripley assaulted the 24-year-old on July 14 last year.

Mr Milner suffered a broken right arm, a wound to his face and swelling to his shoulder and elbow. He initially claimed he had been attacked with a baseball bat but was then unwilling to make a formal statement because he feared repercussions.

Ripley was initially released by police after being arrested for causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

He later admitted to an undercover police officer that he had kicked in Mr Milner’s door and attacked him.

Mr Moore said while Ripley was being held in custody, Michael Pelling, 32, told him in a recorded phone call he had "grabbed" Mr Milner and he would not turn up at court.

Ripley told Pelling: "If he doesn’t come to court, I will walk."

Mr Milner later told the police officer that "Mike" had grabbed Mr Milner around the throat and warned him he would get a good hiding.

He was also threatened not to give evidence by others.

Mr Moore said Ripley, of Langley Road, Sittingbourne, was sending out instructions that Mr Milner should not attend court.

Ripley admitted inflicting grievous bodily harm, conspiracy to pervert the course of justice and handling stolen goods.

He was sentenced to two years, three months youth custody.

Simon Wickens, defending, said the teenager saw red and lashed out at Mr Milner. He had anger management problems.

Pelling, of Harkness Court, Murston, has admitted perverting the course of justice and will be sentenced later.