South Hiendley man jailed for 'ferocious' attack on former partner
The 70 year old has been handed a six year eight month sentence
A West Yorkshire man has been handed a six year eight month sentence after launching a 'ferocious' knife attack on his former partner.
70 year old Ian Rothery, of High Street in South Hiendley near Barnsley, was charged with causing grievious bodily harm with intent following the incident in February.
At 8:38pm on February 2 Rothery called 999 claiming to have killed his girlfriend, before hanging up.
He later called back and claimed he'd stabbed his partner.
The now 67 year old victim was located at a neighbour's house with multiple stab wounds to her collar, neck and shoulder, and injuries to her face and hands.
CCTV confirmed she'd been assaulted inside a home, before being chased by Rothery into a front garden.
She suffers ongoing health issues including breathing difficulties after sustaining a collapsed lung.
PC Becky Thompson, of West Yorkshire Police, said: “The complainant was subjected to a ferocious attack which caused serious injuries and has had a lasting impact.
“Throughout the investigation, she has shown immense courage and bravery in supporting a prosecution and assisting the police and CPS to bring the defendant to justice.
“I hope the sentencing brings the complainant a sense of closure and, with the assistance of family, she can look to the future positively.
“Domestic abuse is not to be tolerated, and we encourage any victim to report it knowing they will be listened to and supported.”
In an impact statement read in court, the victim said: “Prior to the incident, I was a fit and healthy woman with no fears and only contentment."
"I had a lot of pleasures in life, such as dog walking, meeting friends, enjoying my village walks. The difference to what my life once was to what it has become is unfathomable. That’s because of Ian.
"I’ve been left hurt, frightened, living with constant pain and flash backs. This is no life. But I know with the help of my family, especially my son and daughter, that I will be able to rebuild myself and eventually heal.
"How long this will take, who knows. I don’t want to think of Ian anymore and won’t comment but I hope that justice is served so nobody has to go through what I had to. Next time, there might not be a second chance.”