2016: JILTED LOVER DAVID HUGHES JAILED FOR 'FEROCIOUS AND TERRIFYING' KNIFE ATTACK ON EX-PARTNER IN SHARPLES
Bolton Crown Court sentenced David Hughes to nine years and four months behind bars for a savage assault on his former partner, Claire Heaton.It was revealed that the 58-year-old had repeatedly stabbed Ms Heaton with a craft knife in her back, shoulders, and arms at her Sharples home.
Hughes and Ms Heaton had been in a relationship for around three years, beginning after they met online.
During the trial, Ms Heaton described her ordeal in a victim impact statement, stating: "It was like a total obsession," and expressing her terror, saying: "I thought I was going to die.
My mum, sister, and brother all believed I was going to die.
No one should have to go through that because of the acts of another." Prosecutor David Clarke said Hughes had a volatile temper and was verbally abusive during their relationship.
The couple separated in March the previous year, but Hughes continued to pursue Ms Heaton, convincing her to reconcile in October.
Clarke explained that after an initially good start, their relationship soured and became hostile.
Following a heated argument on Christmas Eve, Ms Heaton was told to leave their shared residence in Worsley, which she did in January.
Hughes then sent her numerous messages—up to 40 per day—and even after she blocked his number, he sent emails described as "erratic." On April 9, Hughes bought a craft knife and a kitchen knife and went to Ms Heaton’s address on Wrenbury Drive.
She answered the door, and he attacked her, causing her to fear for her life and sustain a bloody wound on her arm.
In a moment of self-harm, Hughes slashed his own throat.
A neighbor, who Hughes threatened with the knife and who witnessed the attack, intervened.
Witnesses reported seeing Hughes approach Ms Heaton in a zombie-like state before stabbing her eight additional times in her back, including a large, unprecedented cut.
Hughes was heard to say "I love her" before lying on the ground until police arrived.
The attack left permanent scars on Ms Heaton and caused psychological trauma.
Hughes pleaded guilty to charges of wounding with intent, possessing a blade, and threatening a neighbor with a weapon.
The court acknowledged his history as a hardworking family man and the presence of a 17-year-old son.
The judge sentenced him to nine years and four months and issued a restraining order.
Det Insp Charlotte Cadden said the attack was frenzied and brutal, emphasizing its premeditated nature and noting that a neighbor’s quick response likely saved Ms Heaton's life.
Diane Hawkins, chair of the Fortalice charity in Bolton, stressed the importance of seeking help early and urged those experiencing threats or harassment to act before violence occurs.
