Swindon Thug James Cherry Jailed for Brutal Attack and String of Thefts
James Cherry, 28, homeless and on Swindon streets, has been locked up for eight years and seven months after a vicious assault and a spree of robberies. The sentence was handed down at Swindon Crown Court on 28 January.
Brutal Attack Leaves Woman with Broken Jaw
In the early hours of 21 April 2019, Cherry punched a woman in the face at a private Swindon address, shattering her jaw. She was rushed to hospital where surgeons pinned plates to the broken bones. The injury has left her with life-changing damage.
Robbery Spree Adds to Jail Time
Cherry’s criminal trail doesn’t end there. Over six months, he pleaded guilty to a series of robberies and thefts, including:
- Robbing a McColls shop in June 2019
- Stealing money from a pop-up shop in Cavendish Square
- Robbery at the Esso service station on Dorcan Way, stealing tobacco
- Stealing perfume from Lloyds Pharmacy in Park South and Superdrug in the town centre
The court also ordered a three years and five months extended licence, meaning Cherry will spend a total of 12 years under prison and probation supervision.
Police Praise Victim’s Bravery and Relief at Jail Term
“Cherry is a prolific offender. The injuries he caused were life changing for the victim,” said Detective Constable Tina Staynings, lead on the assault case. “He denied purposefully hitting her all the way through the trial. I thank the victim for her bravery in coming forward. Hopefully, this sentence brings her some closure.”
Detective Constable Clare Sylvester-Wyness, handling the theft and robbery cases, added: “I’m pleased Cherry admitted the thefts and robberies, saving court time and public money. His sentence means honest local businesses can get some respite from his criminal activities.”
