Businessman who tackled two thieves after catching them red-handed on his property is on trial for assault

A businessman who attacked two thieves caught red-handed in a night-time raid was arrested after defending his property, a court has heard. Andrew Woodhouse, 44, is currently facing assault charges on the two raiders he found stealing diesel from his business.

A jury heard how Woodhouse grabbed a fence post one was carrying as a weapon – and used it to fight back against them. The father-of-five – who says he has repeatedly been a victim of crime at his gardening company – kept hold of the two burglars until police arrived.

But the court was told it was Woodhouse who was then arrested and accused of using excessive force.

The thieves ended up with £75 fines – but businessman Woodhouse could face a prison sentence if he is found guilty of attacking them.

I dont understand how English court system works, what has this man done wrong?