Men slashed woman with knife in ‘targeted attack’ in Swindon

Two men who hit a woman in the hands with a knife in a “horrific, targeted attack” have been jailed.

Jay Stokes, 32, of Hallam Moor, Swindon and Martin Coombs, 25, of Sommerville Road, Walcot, left a woman in her 30s seriously injured on November 29 last year.

The pair broke into an apartment in Park North, before attacking the woman, searching the apartment and fleeing with cash.

They were sentenced at Swindon Crown Court on Wednesday, after being found guilty of aggravated burglary. Stokes was sentenced to 11 years in prison for the burglary and Coombs was sentenced to nine years in prison.

Stokes was also given an additional 18 months for a non-drug offense, making a total sentence of 12 years and eight months.

“This was a horrific, targeted attack on a vulnerable woman which left her with serious injuries,” said Detective Inspector Sarah Champion, of Wiltshire Police’s burglary team.

Police said that during the trial the jury was shown “key” CCTV footage from a lift, where the men discussed the attack before and after it took place.

“Despite this evidence, they still pleaded not guilty to the offense and forced the victim to relive the incident at trial,” Det Insp. Champion.

“Both defendants show a complete lack of remorse for their actions and I am pleased that they have been convicted today.”

“Burglaries remain a priority for security forces as it is a highly invasive crime, targeting someone in their own home, where they should feel safest,” added Det Insp. . Champion.

“This is completely unacceptable and we will continue to target offenders like Coombs and Stokes and ensure they face justice.”