Callum Walsh, a 29-year-old man from Barnham, has been handed a 13.5-year sentence for two distinct yet grievous crimes. The sentence, delivered at Lewes Crown Court, addresses Walsh’s involvement in a stabbing incident in 2021 and subsequent abusive behaviour in early 2023.
The first incident unfolded on the afternoon of May 23, 2021, in Littlehampton. After spending the night and morning drinking with a male friend, an argument erupted between Walsh and his companion. The dispute escalated violently, with Walsh hitting the man with a bottle and then stabbing him, resulting in significant injuries. Walsh was arrested the next day, charged with causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent, and released on court bail.
While awaiting his trial, in December 2022, Walsh began a relationship with a woman in her 20s. This relationship soon turned abusive, with Walsh displaying paranoid and coercive behaviour. He attempted to exert control over her movements and social interactions, often resorting to violence when he felt his control slipping.
This pattern of abuse culminated in a severe assault in the early hours of January 14, 2023. The woman managed to escape and contact emergency services. The police swiftly responded, ensuring her protection and initiating a search for Walsh. He was arrested in Cornwall in June, charged with non-fatal strangulation, causing actual bodily harm, and engaging in coercive/controlling behaviour, and was remanded in custody.
While in custody, Walsh pleaded guilty to the GBH charge related to the 2021 stabbing. At a hearing at Lewes Crown Court on November 8, he also pleaded guilty to non-fatal strangulation. The charges of actual bodily harm and coercive/controlling behaviour were left on file.
Walsh received his sentence on December 22, comprising an extended period of 13.5 years, including 8.5 years in custody and an additional five years on extended license. This sentence reflects the severity of his actions in both the stabbing and the abusive relationship.
Detective Inspector Gary Jacobs said: “Callum Walsh is a violent offender who was rightly found by the court to pose a clear danger to the public.
“Thankfully, both of his victims in these investigations have physically recovered from his violent attacks but must live with the lasting psychological impacts.
“Both have shown incredible determination and courage to support this investigation through to its conclusion. Thanks to them, Walsh is now behind bars where he cannot harm any other women.
“If you or someone you know is in an abusive or controlling relationship, please report it to police online, via 101 or by dialling 999 in an emergency.
“We have a range of discreet methods of reporting and accessing support without your abuser finding out.”
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