Portsmouth Man Jailed for Knife Attack During Burglary
Charlie McGowan, 21, of Drummond Road, Portsmouth, has been found guilty of a vicious stabbing during a burglary. The court convicted him of Section 18 Grievous Bodily Harm and burglary after he previously admitted lesser charges.
Attack Followed Shed Break-in Attempt
The attack happened on the afternoon of Thursday 13 August 2020. McGowan tried to break into a shed on Kingston Crescent but was caught in the act by the man who owns the shed, a man in his 30s.
Initially, McGowan fled the garden, but nearby in a parking area, he stunned everyone by stabbing the victim in the neck with a screwdriver.
Victim Survived Life-Threatening Injuries
The victim suffered life-threatening wounds and was rushed to Southampton General Hospital for emergency surgery. Thankfully, he has made a full recovery.
Officers arrested McGowan within 15 minutes of the incident after he tried to flee the scene.
Hero Passer-by Praised for Saving Victim
Her Honour Recorder Louise Harvey praised a passer-by who “stepped in and administered first aid whilst waiting for emergency services to arrive, which very likely saved the victim’s life.”
Detective Constable Steve Tuck, lead on the case, said: “This senseless act of violence could have easily resulted in the death of a man. Luckily, he survived emergency surgery and has recovered well.”
He added: “I am grateful for the swift police response and pleased with this sentence. We also thank the member of the public who gave first aid — they almost certainly saved his life.”
“I hope this sentence brings closure to the victim and reassures the public that such violent crimes will not be tolerated.”
