Man Jailed for Brutal Home Invasion and Stabbing
James Smith, 36, from Trowbridge, was slammed with a nine-year sentence yesterday (21/09) after a nasty stabbing in Westbury. He was handed six years and eight months behind bars, plus an extended three-year licence, following his guilty plea at Salisbury Crown Court on September 9.
Chilling Attack in Victim’s Own Home
On April 21 last year, Smith and an accomplice gained entry to the victim’s house posing as guests. They demanded money, but when the victim refused, Smith stabbed him in the stomach. The victim needed surgery but was discharged the very next day.
Adding to the horror, the victim’s partner was grabbed by the throat during the attack.
Guilty Plea Comes at Last Minute
Smith initially denied all charges but flipped his plea on the first day of trial. Detective Constable Higginbottom from Melksham Police Station branded the crime “despicable.”
“This was a despicable act where Smith tried to take advantage of a man having been let into his home. Fortunately, the victim’s injuries are nowhere near as severe as they could have been. We welcome Smith’s sentence and believe it reflects the severity of his crime.”
