JACK HEATH OF CREWE SENTENCED FOR TERRIFYING KNIFE ATTACK ON 13-YEAR-OLD GIRL

In a harrowing incident that unfolded in Crewe, a 61-year-old man named Jack Heath was convicted and sentenced for a brutal and frightening assault on a young girl. The attack, which took place on the afternoon of Tuesday, December 27, involved a series of violent and predatory actions that left the victim traumatized and in need of medical treatment.

According to reports, Heath had previously established a questionable relationship with the 13-year-old girl, which may have contributed to her feeling somewhat familiar or trusting of him. On the day of the attack, he approached her while she was walking her dog, offering the animal a treat in an apparent attempt to gain her trust or lure her closer. Once he had her attention, Heath's intentions turned sinister.

He forcibly grabbed the girl and attempted to lead her into his house, an act that clearly indicated his predatory motives. During the assault, Heath used a knife in a threatening manner, which escalated the situation into a potentially life-threatening ordeal. He managed to indecently assault her by putting his hand inside her top and touching her inappropriately with one hand, all while trying to take an indecent photograph of her. The girl, frightened and desperate to escape, struggled to break free from his grasp.

Despite her efforts, Heath held onto her wrist, and in a violent outburst, slashed her arm with the knife. The attack did not stop there; he also cut her other wrist and made an attempt to stab her in the chest, actions that could have resulted in severe injury or death. Fortunately, the girl’s quick thinking and her dog’s intervention played a crucial role in her escape. When her dog bit Heath, she seized the opportunity to break free and run to safety.

Emergency medical personnel treated her for multiple lacerations to her arms, fingers, shoulder, and head. The injuries were serious, but she survived the attack. Heath was arrested and, during legal proceedings, pleaded guilty to charges of wounding and sexual assault. His actions shocked the community and prompted a strong response from law enforcement.

Heath, who resides on Sycamore Avenue in Crewe, was sentenced to a total of 10 years and four months in prison for the assault, with an additional three years for sexual assault. The sentences are to run concurrently, meaning he will serve the longer term. Furthermore, Heath has been subjected to a lifelong Sex Offender Prevention Order and will remain on the Sex Offenders Register for the rest of his life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions.

Detective Constable Rob Lees from the Eastern Public Protection Unit commented on the case, stating, “This was a terrifying attack on a young girl. She thought he was trying to kill her. She fought back and when her dog bit him she managed to escape. She was treated for lacerations to her arms, fingers, shoulder, and head. What he did was shocking and beyond reproach. We have been supporting the young victim and her family and hope the sentence will help them in their recovery.”