Brutal Park Attack: William Saunders Sentenced Over Shocking Torch Beating
Violent Assault at Mangravet Recreation Ground
William Saunders launched a savage attack on three young men in a park near his home in Camp Way. On the night of 25 July 2020, the trio were socialising at Mangravet Recreation Ground around 10.30pm when Saunders approached. Initially friendly, the 35-year-old soon returned to deliver a vicious kick to one victim’s face.
Demand, Threats and Beatings
Saunders then targeted another victim, demanding money, booze, and their phones. As the men cowered on the ground, he paced between them, shining a heavyweight torch in their eyes and threatening further harm if they moved.
Not stopping there, Saunders dragged one victim to his nearby home, threatening murder unless relatives coughed up cash. After stealing £24 from the man’s wallet, he went back to the park, leaving the others with an accomplice who also threatened deadly violence.
A struggle broke out as the men fought back. Saunders kicked one in the back and head and brutally beat another with the heavy torch. Then he fled as police and ambulance arrived.
Swift Justice in Maidstone Crown Court
Saunders was arrested the next morning at his address and charged with two counts of robbery, attempted robbery, and possession of an offensive weapon in public.
At Maidstone Crown Court, he pleaded guilty and was sentenced on 23 November to five years and three months behind bars, plus a three-year extended licence.
Detective’s Warning: No Tolerance for Violence
“Saunders is a prolific and violent offender who subjected his victims to a truly terrifying ordeal,” said Detective Constable Toby Hawkins of Maidstone CID. “His unprovoked actions left young men fearing for their lives with appalling injuries. This significant custodial sentence sends a clear message that such gratuitous violence will not be tolerated in our communities.”
The hunt continues for a second suspect involved in the attack.
