Attack victim Colin Clarke survived a savage beating after being warned by a thug: "I don't hurt people, I kill them."
Mr Clarke then lost two front teeth after being headbutted, punched and kicked by 43-year-old James MacPherson, a court heard.
It was also claimed MacPherson was so furious with Mr Clarke that he told a pal: "Get a pitchfork, I'm going to kill him."
Heroin user MacPherson, of Sandhurst Crescent, Leigh, ended up in the dock at Basildon Crown Court.
He pleaded guilty to causing actual bodily harm and was jailed for 15 months.
Prosecutor Russell Fortt told the court Mr Clarke wanted to sell a car and a man named Tony Oliver paid him a £40 deposit.
But Mr Oliver changed his mind and went to Mr Clarke's home with the defendant. Mr Clarke was asked to get the money, but MacPherson suddenly lashed out and headbutted him, said Mr Fortt.
He went on to say Mr Clarke was also punched and kicked on the floor by the defendant, who made several threats.
Published Friday January 30, 2004
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article