Knifepoint Robbery Sees Teen Stabbed in the Eye
Two men have been sentenced to six years each for a terrifying knifepoint robbery that left a teenager stabbed under his eyelid. Dylan Doughty, 22, and Ashley Jones, 21, both pleaded guilty to five counts of robbery at Newport Crown Court.
Random Attack on Group of Friends
The court heard the pair ambushed five friends walking home after a night out in Ryde. Around 12.30am on October 13, on Swanmore Road, Doughty and Jones threatened the group with a knife and demanded their belongings.
An 18-year-old man from Ventnor was stabbed in the eye during the assault. Doctors said he was lucky not to lose his sight but he is still undergoing treatment for serious eye damage.
Quick Arrest After Social Media Tip-Off
The suspects were identified from a photo posted on social media. Police swiftly arrested them, finding stolen items from the victims in their possession.
Police Praise Victims and Witnesses
Detective Constable Lee Parker said: “This was a terrifying attack on a group of friends who were simply walking home after a night out together. This could have easily ended with a teenager losing his eyesight, it is sheer luck that this didn’t happen. This was a totally random attack and I’m pleased that these two dangerous men are safely behind bars.”
“I would like to thank the victims for their bravery throughout this investigation and to all the witnesses who spoke to us and shared what they knew to ensure these two no longer posed a risk to those living and working on the island.”
