Henfield burglar jailed for stabbing elderly residents during break-in
Lee Tidy was found guilty of attempted murder, grievous bodily harm with intent, aggravated burglary and possession of a Class B drug (cannabis)
Last updated 10th Nov 2023
A Henfield man who stabbed two men when he was interrupted breaking into their house has been jailed for 23 years.
Lee Tidy, 24, of North Mead in Henfield, broke into a house in Henfield Common South on the night of 4 February.
One of the occupants – a 90-year-old man – heard him enter through a first storey window and confronted him on the landing. He was tackled to the floor and stabbed in the neck, but managed to shout for help.
A second occupant – a 61-year-old man – ran upstairs but was also stabbed in the neck by Tidy.
Tidy stole a set of car keys and fled the property via a conservatory window, injuring his hand and leaving a trail of blood in his wake.
He was located in a property linked to him, covered in blood with a bandaged hand and a small quantity of cannabis.
He was arrested and subsequently charged with attempted murder, grievous bodily harm with intent, aggravated burglary and possession of a Class B drug (cannabis).
At Lewes Crown Court on 25 August, Tidy was found guilty of all charges.
At the same court on Thursday (9 November), Tidy was sentenced to 23 years in prison and told he must serve at least two thirds of his sentence before being eligible for parole.
Detective Sergeant Jordan Holmes said: “This was a terrifying experience for the two victims, one of whom was nearly murdered in his own home by Lee Tidy.
"Due to the brave actions of both victims, they managed to call police and distance themselves from Tidy, who was soon apprehended by police officers with injuries linking him to the crime scene. Both victims thankfully made a full recovery from the injuries they sustained.
“At court, Tidy tried to twist the truth about had happened and denied any accountability around the events of the night. Thankfully the jury saw through these false accounts and he has now been given a significant custodial sentence, where he can cause no further harm.
“This excellent result could not have been achieved were it not for the bravery of the victims, and the swift actions of Sussex Police’s response and investigative units.”