Grim Knife Attack in Bishops Waltham Ends in Life Sentence
Adam David Wright, 39, has been jailed for life with a minimum of 24 years for the brutal knifing of his 77-year-old grandmother-in-law, June Henty. The horrific assault left the community of Bishops Waltham shaken and Mrs Henty fighting for her life for six long months before tragically passing away.
Victim Suffered Over 100 Knife Wounds
On the morning of 23 December 2023, police rushed to Mrs Henty’s home in Wickham. She was found with more than 100 deep cuts over her face and body after Wright’s savage knife attack.
Mrs Henty endured serious haemorrhages to her head and neck and a severe brain bleed. Despite intensive care and a six-month battle, she died on 14 June 2024.
Guilty Plea and Tough Sentence
Wright was arrested the same day after Mrs Henty bravely named him as her attacker. Initially charged with attempted murder, prosecutors upgraded the charge to murder following her death.
He pleaded guilty at Portsmouth Crown Court on 27 February and was sentenced on 27 November. Wright faces at least 24 years behind bars before parole, meaning he will serve a minimum of 22 more years from now on.
Family Mourns Their ‘Pillar of Strength’
“Our beautiful mum June was brutally taken away from us and as a family we are heartbroken,” the family said.
“She was a kind and loving lady who always put her family first. She enjoyed life to the fullest and loved being around her family and friends.”
“Mum was a pillar of strength and always stood up for what she believed in, even through the toughest of times. Our lives will now never be the same without her.”
“Even though there has been some justice today, it will never be enough. She was our world and we were hers. We have lost the heart of our family and feel broken without her.”
Detective Hopes Sentence Brings Some Closure
“This result follows the tragic loss of June Henty. She did nothing to deserve the abhorrent violence she suffered,” said DI Tim Judd.
“June fought for six months, and thanks to her courage, we identified Adam Wright as her attacker.”
“No sentence can bring June back, but I hope knowing the man responsible is behind bars offers some closure to her family.”
