Violent Attacker Jailed After Brutal Assault on Elderly Man and Woman
Gary Barney, 49, from Peacehaven, stormed into a Sutton Avenue home on 3 July 2023 and unleashed a savage assault on a 78-year-old man. The victim suffered serious head and body injuries in the violent ordeal.
Woman Brutally Attacked While Trying to Call Police
A 45-year-old woman inside the property tried to summon help but was punched and seriously injured by Barney. Undeterred, he resumed his vicious attack on the elderly man before fleeing the scene.
Swift Police Action Leads to Arrest and Jail Sentence
The victims managed to alert police, who arrested Barney minutes after the attack. He faced charges of grievous bodily harm with intent and attempted grievous bodily harm.
At Lewes Crown Court on 12 January, Barney was sentenced to six years and eight months in prison after being found guilty on all counts. His sentence also covered a separate assault on a police officer in August 2022.
Detective Condemns Brutal Violence in Sussex
“Gary Barney is a violent offender, who indiscriminately assaulted an elderly man and a woman in what was a prolonged attack,” said Detective Constable Marcos Miranda de la Fuente.
“Violence of any kind will not be tolerated in Sussex, including attacks on our officers as they protect the public. This custodial sentence puts a dangerous criminal behind bars and hopefully brings closure to the victims.”
