MANCHESTER MAN JAILED FOR STABBING BROTHER LEADING TO DEATH
A man responsible for stabbing his brother in the neck during an intoxicated altercation on Christmas Day has been sentenced to prison following his sibling’s death over six years later.John Boniface, who is 60 years old, was found guilty of manslaughter after experts confirmed that the 2cm wound inflicted during the 2015 incident contributed directly to his brother, Paul Hinds’ death.
Boniface had previously admitted to causing grievous bodily harm at the time of the attack on December 25, 2015.
He received a three-year sentence in 2016 and was released on parole in October 2017.
During the trial at Manchester Crown Court, it was revealed that the attack had a devastating effect on Mr.
Hinds, leaving him paralyzed from the chest down due to his spinal cord being severed by the knife.
Mr.
Hinds ultimately died from pneumonia in May 2022 at the age of 61, with medical experts stating that the injury he sustained played a significant role in his death.
The court heard that following the stabbing, Mr.
Hinds was diagnosed with complete tetraplegia, which severely impacted his abilities, necessitating continuous hospital care.
His partner, Leslie Fox, recounted how Mr.
Hinds lost interest in life, became confined to his home, and felt ashamed of his condition.
She also expressed her disbelief over the circumstances that led to the injury, emphasizing the close relationship between the brothers.
Prosecutor Michael Lavery pointed out that the violence erupted after an evening involving alcohol, with tensions escalating to the point that Boniface stabbed his brother—an act he acknowledged was not self-defense.
Boniface had no prior criminal record and showed remorse for his actions.
His defense argued that the stabbing was a spontaneous, reactive act rather than premeditated.
Judge Elizabeth Nicholls sentenced Boniface to two years and four months in prison, with half of that to be served on license.
The judge recognized the tragic consequences but also noted Boniface’s remorse and lack of premeditation.
His sentence was reduced due to guilty pleas and time already served, though the judge emphasized that his criminality remained serious.
This case underscores the destructive effects of alcohol-fueled violence, resulting in a tragic outcome that brought profound grief to many.
The court acknowledged the significant loss to Mr.
Hinds’ family and the deep trauma caused by the incident.
