Clacton Man Jailed for 20 Years After Brutal Attempted Murder
Brett Hart, 38, of Elmden Court, Clacton, has been locked up following a gruesome attack that left four people injured. Hart was found guilty of attempted murder of one victim and two counts of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent, plus driving while disqualified and uninsured.
20 Years Behind Bars for Shocking Attack
Hart received a 20-year prison sentence for attempted murder. He also got five years for each grievous bodily harm charge and six months for the driving offences. All sentences will run concurrently.
Partner Cleared of Perverting Justice
Hart’s partner and co-defendant, Rebecca Grant, from Mendlesham Close, Clacton, was accused of perverting the course of justice. The judge, however, directed a not guilty verdict.
Horrific Scene on Elmden Court
On the night of 25 August 2020, police were called to reports of a gang with baseball bats trying to break into Hart’s home. Instead, they found a teenage girl badly injured on the ground along with three others – another teenage girl and two men.
As victims tried to escape, Hart jumped into his VW Golf, sped towards a teenage girl, and clipped her legs, spinning her to the floor. The car then struck one man across the back, causing him to roll over the bonnet, before hitting the second female victim on her legs.
Hart then reversed, hitting the girl again and trapping her underneath the car as she screamed for help. Another man who came to her rescue was also hit by Hart’s vehicle, who was reportedly laughing during the attack.
Hart drove off without any concern for the injured. Police later arrested him and seized the car for forensic testing.
Detective’s Verdict on Violent Attack
“This was a horrific, deliberate attempt by Hart to seriously hurt four people,” said Detective Constable Darren Buckingham, who led the investigation. “It will have a lasting impact on the victims, both mentally and physically.”
“Hart showed no regard for his victims and has been rightly punished. He wasn’t someone to protect, but someone who needed to be brought to justice – and thankfully, that has happened.”
