Man Sentenced to 13 Years for Brutal Attempted Murder in Reading
Patrick Benjamin, 43, of Lulworth Road, Reading, was locked up for 13 years at Reading Crown Court yesterday (23/2). He was found guilty of attempted murder after a savage knife attack on his partner in December 2020.
Attack After Bitter Row Over Infidelity
Benjamin and his long-term partner, a woman in her thirties, had fallen out over alleged cheating. On the night of 10 December 2020, she refused to let him share their bed, leaving him awake all night. At around 6.15am the next morning, Benjamin launched his horrifying attack, slashing her across the neck and chest with a Stanley knife while she lay in bed.
The victim suffered two deep slash wounds and serious defensive injuries to her arms and hands. The attack only stopped when her teenage son rushed in after hearing her cries. Benjamin then fled, driving off from the scene.
Heroic Son Calls 999, Victim Rushed to Hospital
The son called emergency services immediately. The victim received treatment at the scene before being rushed to Royal Berkshire Hospital, where she underwent surgery. Miraculously, she was discharged the following day.
Benjamin Attempts Suicide After Attack
Later that day, police found Benjamin in a Tadley car park, having doused himself and his car in petrol and set them on fire. Firefighters extinguished the flames, and Benjamin was airlifted to Southampton General Hospital with life-changing injuries. He spent 22 days in an induced coma before being moved to Salisbury District Hospital. He was discharged, arrested, and charged on 29 January 2021.
Detective Urges Domestic Abuse Victims to Speak Out
Detective Sergeant Oliver Cahill-Smith of West Berkshire Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit, said:
“This is a very sad case which has ripped a family apart. The victim and her children faced a traumatic ordeal and showed great bravery during the trial. We hope the sentence brings them some closure. I urge any victims of domestic abuse to come forward—help is available, and we will pursue offenders relentlessly.”
