Sunbury Man Jailed for 27 Years After Brutal Knife Attack on Partner
A Sunbury man has been sentenced to 27 years behind bars for a savage knife attack on his partner as she slept. The assault left her with life-changing injuries and permanent facial nerve damage.
Knife Attack in Early Hours
Richard Flower, 39, launched the horrific attack in the early hours of 25 August 2024. He stabbed his partner twice in the head before inflicting cuts to her hand and arm as she desperately tried to defend herself.
“The injury to my jaw line, where the weapon has made impact with the main nerve which affects my ability to smile, may never be repairable, and I have been advised I may never be able to smile again properly.”
Mental Health Breakdown Triggered Attack
Court heard Flower’s mental health had severely deteriorated. He became convinced his partner was cheating on him. After hours of questioning her, he followed her into the living room, grabbed a knife, and attacked without warning.
The victim initially thought she had been punched, only realising the true extent of her injuries when she tried to get up and found she had been stabbed.
Jail Time and Praise for Police
Flower was convicted of attempted murder and handed 23 years in prison, plus four years extended licence under the dangerous offender scheme.
Detective Sergeant Ali Bagshaw praised the victim’s bravery and the investigation team’s work:
“Most of all I would like to express my utmost admiration for the victim of this horrific crime, who has shown herself to be exceptionally strong throughout this ordeal and beyond. 1 will always take reports of domestic abuse and violence against women and girls seriously and will do everything we can to support survivors and bring offenders to justice.”
“No amount of prison time will make up for what he has done. The police often receive negative press, but in a real emergency, they’re exactly who you want on your side. From the very beginning, Surrey Police were compassionate, professional, and incredibly supportive.”
