Two men jailed for 'sustained and brutal' attack on man held in Salisbury flat
Victim threatened with a firearm and machete
Last updated 16th Mar 2022
Two men have been jailed for a 'terrifying' attack on a man which saw him held him against his will at a flat in Salisbury city centre and threatened with a firearm and a machete.
The victim went to an address in Eyres Way to exchange medication for controlled drugs in January 2020.
During this exchange, Gary Harford, 34, accused him of stealing drugs before assaulting him with punches, kicks and wielding a machete.
Harford and Terrence Johnson, 42, continued to torture the victim, holding him against his will and threated him with an airgun.
During the incident, the victim was bound with tape and struck with a hammer and the back of a machete blade, whilst threats were also made to set him alight and use a cut-throat razor on him.
The victim’s phone and other personal items were also stolen.
The ordeal came to an end after two hours when the victim was able to escape the property before reporting to Wiltshire Police.
Firearms officers attended the flat, which had been barricaded by Harford, and arrested the occupants.
Johnson was arrested at his own flat in the city later on the same day.
Gary Harford, 34, who at the time of these offences resided in Eyres Way, Salisbury, was found guilty of false imprisonment, possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, robbery and threats to kill at a hearing at Winchester Crown Court following a three-week trial in August 2021.
He had already pleaded guilty to causing actual bodily harm (ABH) and assaulting a police officer.
He was sentenced yesterday (March 15th) to 11 years in prison, of which he must serve at least two thirds, plus three years on extended licence.
Meanwhile, Terrence Johnson, 42, who at the time of these offences resided in Barnard Street, Salisbury, was found guilty of false imprisonment and ABH for his part in the same incident.
He was sentenced to five years in prison.
Sgt Steve Edwards said:
“This was a terrifying ordeal for the victim who was subject to a vicious assault for two hours at the hands of Gary Harford and Terrence Johnson, which only came to an end when the victim was able to escape.
“I would like to praise the victim for his bravery at facing in court those who subjected him to this ordeal and for supporting the investigation.
“Harford and Johnson sought to distance themselves from these allegations during the trial, however, I am pleased that the court saw through their lies and have convicted them of these serious crimes.
“Drugs ruin lives and we are dedicated to bringing to justice those intent on causing harm to our communities through the dealing of illegal drugs and using dangerous weapons as part of their tactic to inflict fear.”
If you are concerned that drug dealing is taking place in your local community, we urge you to report your suspicions to us on 101. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously.