Man sentenced for "horrible and unprovoked attack" in Bedfordshire
Anthony Sims, 40, from Suffolk waited for their victim as they came home, before slashing their face with a Stanley knife
Last updated 18th Aug 2023
A man from Suffolk has been jailed for 10 years after an unprovoked attack in Barton-le-Clay left the victim with a serious facial injury.
On 13 November 2019, Anthony Sims waited for the victim to come home and attempted to pull him towards an alleyway before launching an attack on him.
As well as throwing him to the ground and stamping on his head, Sims also slashed his face with a Stanley knife.
The victim was able to get help from a local takeaway business and was taken to hospital.
During the six-day trial at Luton Crown Court, Sims, 40, of Hayland Drove, West Row, Suffolk, pleaded not guilty claiming it was a false allegation against him, and he wasn’t there at the time the attack had taken place.
After being convicted of grievous bodily harm with intent, he was sentenced last Thursday (10 August) to 10 years in prison with an extra four years on licence.
Detective Sergeant Tracey Joyce from Bedfordshire Police said: “This was a horrible and unprovoked attack on someone who had known Sims for a while and was aware that he had an aggressive side and so therefore was immediately in fear.
“His despicable actions left the victim with serious facial injuries, and he has also suffered mentally, so I am pleased that Sims received a significant custodial sentence.
“He is a dangerous man who will now be off the streets for some time.
“We will take action against violent offenders, so if you have been attacked or have concerns about someone, please report it to us and help us keep our communities safe.”