Gosport man found guilty of ex-partner's serious assault

A woman in her 40s had her throat cut with a razor blade

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 13th Dec 2024

A Gosport man's been convicted of cutting his ex-partner's throat with a razor blade - but cleared of attempted murder.

48 year old William Butler from San Diego Road, attacked a woman in her 40s at a car park off Prince of Wales Road in March.

The victim was a passenger in a car and tried to get away from him by climbing into the back seat.

The driver took her to Gosport police station after realising she was bleeding from the attack.

Police found a razor blade on the floor at the scene and through enquiries, discovered he'd been waiting for the victim in his car for more than 5 minutes before the incident.

He admitted affray and possession of a bladed article at a hearing in May, and today (Friday 13th December) found guilty of GBH with intent.

Butler's been remanded in custody, to be sentenced at Portsmouth Crown Court in February.

Gosport Inspector Sam Warne said: “Butler demonstrated a horrifying display of violence against a woman in a public place, which was made all the worse by his use of a weapon during the attack.

“Police worked quickly to arrest and prosecute Butler, but ultimately the bravery of the woman in this case – who has shown courage in the face of such a terrifying incident – has resulted in Butler being convicted of serious offences.

“Domestic abuse and violence has a devastating and long-lasting impact on those affected. To anyone who carries weapons, perpetrates domestic abuse, or any form of violence – we do not want you in our towns and cities, and we will make every effort to target perpetrators and protect victims and the wider the public from offences of this nature.”

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