Twelve years for thug who set friend on fire

Adrian Paul Cousins (48), was jailed at Sheffield Crown Court for “horrific” offences of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and arson with intent to endanger life.

Victim Mark White (36), was left scarred for life and lost all his belongings after the fire swept through his first floor flat in Parkgate last September.

Mr White, of Broad Street, spent three weeks in hospital and underwent surgery to fit metal pins in his broken eye socket, cheekbone and jaw.

He also suffered burns to his hands and face and still has to apply cream to stop his skin drying out.

The court heard that Cousins’ motive was unclear, but the two men had been drinking into the early hours at Mr White’s home.

At some point it was suggested that one of Mr White’s neighbours was seeing Cousins’ ex-girlfriend. Cousins grabbed the crowbar and smashed Mr White’s head repeatedly before pouring lighter fuel over him and throwing a lit match.

Cousins, of no fixed address, but from the Masbrough area, admitted both charges.

His barrister said he had vowed to give up drink.

Police have welcomed the sentence.