NORTH DEVON MAN JAILED FOR HORRIFIC ANGLE GRINDER ASSAULT ON ELDERLY COUPLE
Daniel Leitch, who is 31 years old and formerly resided in Bideford before becoming homeless, received a prison sentence after pleading guilty to charges including causing grievous bodily harm with intent, theft, criminal damage, forcing a woman into unwanted sexual activity, assaulting law enforcement officers, and possessing cannabis.The court sentenced him to seven years and two months in prison, with an additional two-year extension on his license period, and he was classified as a dangerous offender by Recorder Mr Richard Stead during proceedings at Exeter Crown Court.
The assault occurred at a caravan situated in Northam, North Devon.
Leitch and an accomplice broke into the caravan at around 3 a.m., while the elderly couple inside were sleeping.
Leitch forcefully kicked the door open and assaulted the man using a stick.
He also held an angle grinder close to the male victim’s neck, causing a cut and serious trauma.
The female victim was made to remove her top and was threatened with the grinder, which was operated at full speed.
The incident was based on mistaken identity; the victims, in their 60s, were a carpenter and a cleaner by profession.
Both suffered serious injuries— the man was left bleeding with a head wound, and the woman experienced psychological trauma.
Leitch took the victims’ belongings and fled but was soon apprehended along with Westcott, who was found in possession of a knife and stolen items.
During the court hearing, Leitch showed remorse, citing alcohol intoxication as a factor in his actions and expressing intentions to seek help for his alcohol issues.
