Man Jailed After Terrifying Attack on Ex in Northampton
Lewis Bland, 34, left his ex terrified for her life after a violent attack at their home in Helene Close in the early hours of September 11, 2023.
Violence Erupts Despite Breakup
A week before the attack, Northamptonshire Police were called to Bland’s flat following his first violent outburst towards the woman, which led to them ending their relationship.
On the evening of September 10, the woman returned from a trip to find Bland still in their shared flat. She didn’t ask him to leave as they were both named on the lease.
Brutal Early Morning Assault
In the early hours the next day, Bland appeared in her bedroom, pinned her to the bed, pinched her nose, and covered her mouth with his hand. The woman managed to fight him off and fled to her en-suite bathroom—trapped without her phone to call for help.
When she emerged, Bland was bleeding from his legs and wielding a knife. Terrified, she escaped to a neighbour’s who called the police. Bland fled the scene but was later arrested.
From Attempted Murder Charge to Jail
Bland was charged with attempted murder, which he denied at his initial Crown Court hearing on October 25. His trial at Northampton Crown Court began on January 29, 2024.
On February 1, the jury found Bland not guilty of attempted murder but convicted him of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
On March 14, Bland was sentenced to 30 months in prison and slapped with an eight-year restraining order banning any contact with the victim.
“Lewis Bland subjected his former partner to an utterly terrifying assault, leaving her in genuine fear for her life,” said Detective Constable Stacey Hill from the Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit.
“Her courage in ending the relationship and supporting the investigation helped bring Bland to justice. Tackling violence against women and girls is a priority for Northamptonshire Police.
“No one should live in fear of someone who claims to love them. If you are suffering abuse, please report it—we will listen and act.”
