A stranger was attacked by a young woman who bit her arm and “growled like a dog” during the incident. The attacker, Brianna Marra, continued to bite her victim for about 10 seconds before biting her a second time.
The assault took place in central New Plymouth on November 9 last year. Marra, 24, was sitting with friends when the victim approached, leading to a confrontation where Marra punched the victim in the mouth, causing her to bleed and fall to the ground.
Marra then proceeded to punch and kick the victim while she was on the ground, even grabbing her arm and biting down hard for about 10 seconds, causing a puncture and bleeding. She was described as growling like a dog during the attack.
After the victim managed to stand up, Marra bit her wrist before being restrained. The victim suffered significant injuries and had to seek medical treatment for a large open wound on her forearm, bruising, swelling to her wrist, and a split lip.
In a separate incident while in custody, Marra attempted to set off a fire sprinkler and assaulted Corrections officers. She appeared in court for sentencing on charges related to both incidents.
Marra’s defense lawyer highlighted her transformation during her time in custody, where she received medication, engaged in rehabilitation, and took on prison employment. Despite recommending community work, the judge opted for a nine-month imprisonment sentence due to Marra’s mental health issues and exceptional circumstances.
Upon release, Marra will be subjected to six months of release conditions.
Tara Shaskey, Open Justice reporter and assistant editor
