Brutal Bottle Attack in Sunderland Lands Two Thugs Behind Bars
Two heartless robbers have been locked up for six-and-a-half years after savagely attacking a man walking home from a night out in Sunderland.
Victim Followed and Blindsided in the Early Hours
James Donohoe, 31, and Graeme Chappell, 41, trailed their 32-year-old victim through Sunderland city centre in the early hours of December 29 last year. The duo then smashed a glass bottle over his head before stealing his mobile phone, cash, and vape.
The victim was left bleeding and battered in the street, suffering cuts and bruises. CCTV caught the pair stalking and striking him, before they brazenly strolled away from the scene.
Justice Served at Newcastle Crown Court
The attackers were convicted of robbery and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Donohoe also admitted carrying an offensive weapon. On Monday, November 2, both men received hefty jail terms of six-and-a-half years.
“This was a callous and pre-meditated attack,” said Detective Constable Leigh Booth, who led the investigation. “They followed their victim home, attacked him with a glass bottle, and then left him vulnerable in the street. Their behaviour is absolutely inexcusable.”
“I hope this strong sentence sends a message to other would-be offenders – you will be caught, you will be prosecuted, and you will be locked up,” added DC Booth.
Victim Speaks Out After Attack
The terrified victim revealed the impact the attack has had on his life: “This incident has caused me anxiety and I no longer walk home in the dark on a night. Nobody has the right to do this to me.”
Despite refusing police interviews, Donohoe and Chappell admitted their crimes in court, sealing their fate.
