Dean Ellis was caught on CCTV when he sunk his teeth into his housemate’s ear at supported accommodation in April 2023 and a chunk of flesh can be seen to fall to the floor.
Footage, which was played in court, showed Ellis then “add insult to injury” when he picked up the detached chunk and threw it at the victim.
Newcastle Crown Court heard Ellis did then assist the injured man, who had been given advice in a 999 call on how to preserve the portion of ear, and fetched him ice and a cloth as he lay on the floor bleeding.
Despite efforts of medical staff at hospital, the severed ear part could not be re-attached, which the victim said has had a “massive negative affect” on his confidence, job prospects and family life.
Ellis, 35, of Rosalind Street, Ashington, Northumberland, who has previous convictions, admitted unlawful wounding on the basis he believed the victim had asked someone for a knife during the fight.
Judge Sarah Mallett told him: “You bit his ear, severing the top of it, the severed part fell to the floor and to add insult to injury you threw it at him.”
Penny Hall, defending, said it was when the injured man was on top of Ellis that he heard him ask someone for a knife.
Miss Hall added: “He accepted, at that point, he bit his ear.
“There clearly was some background between the two of them.”
Miss Hall said Ellis has a good work ethic and employment history, has gained qualifications, a job offer and has stayed out of trouble since the offence, which was almost two years ago.
Ellis was sentenced to 23 months, suspended for two years, with rehabilitation requirements.