Brutal Baseball Bat Attack in Storrington: Two Men Jailed
Anthony Lee and George Cranford launched a savage, pre-planned assault on a 22-year-old victim at a Rowan Close home in Storrington on Sunday, 16 February 2020. The victim, a friend of the attackers, was playing on a games console when the pair barged in and viciously beat him.
Baseball Bat Blows and Multiple Blows
The victim was hit repeatedly with a baseball bat, punched, and kicked, suffering a serious head injury, a fractured elbow, and significant bruising. Both suspects were quickly identified and arrested.
Bragging and Guilty Pleas Lead to Jail
Further investigations uncovered chilling messages from Lee boasting: “Me and George smash him right up earlier.” Lee, 26, from Brighton Road, Crawley, pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of an offensive weapon. He was sentenced to four-and-a-half years in prison at Lewes Crown Court on 27 April.
Cranford, 21, of Rowan Close, Storrington, admitted to grievous bodily harm without intent and received a 15-month sentence at the same hearing.
Detective: Community Can Feel Safer Now
“This was a premeditated, prolonged, and brutal attack on a young man who needed hospital treatment,” said Detective Constable Michelle Jewiss of Worthing Investigations. “Lee has had a significant impact on his victim and the local community over the years. This sentence will bring relief to them all, knowing Lee will be off the streets for a while.”
