Guilty plea in Wrightsville Beach attack

The man charged with a September attack in Wrightsville Beach that left the victim in a coma pleaded guilty to felony assault today. 28-year-old Hugh Sandlin attacked Judson Gee in a case of mistaken identity. Detectives say he thought Gee was someone else when he attacked him and took his bike. Sandlin apologized to Gee in court.

The judge sentenced Sandlin to four months in jail, three years probation, 100 hours of community service and ordered Sandlin to pay $50,000 in restitution for Gee’s medical expenses and lost wages. Gee has made a complete recovery, and endorsed today’s plea agreement.