KARL MACHIN'S BRUTAL ATTACK IN BLACKPOOL LEAVES WOMAN UNRECOGNISABLE AND INJURED FOR LIFE

A woman who was subjected to a vicious assault by her partner in Blackpool has described the aftermath as being just as emotionally devastating as the physical injuries she sustained. Her ordeal, which occurred in December, left her with injuries so severe that she was nearly unrecognisable, and she has chosen to speak out publicly in hopes of inspiring other victims of abuse to find the courage to come forward.

According to reports, the attacker, Karl Machin, aged 44 and a resident of Blackpool, inflicted a series of brutal injuries during the assault, which he also recorded on his mobile phone. The attack was characterized by extreme violence, with Machin breaking the woman's jaw and damaging her eye socket, among other injuries. The woman, who has requested anonymity, recounted that her injuries were so severe that one police officer believed she had dyed her hair red due to the amount of blood covering her face.

The Lancashire Police described the attack as shocking and brutal, emphasizing that Machin's actions were not only violent but also premeditated, as evidenced by the filming of the assault. The woman suffered a range of injuries, including a broken jaw, concussion, and a brain injury that has resulted in memory problems. She also experienced a speech impairment, a fractured orbital floor in her left eye socket, and the loss of several teeth. Her face was further damaged by nerve and tissue injuries, which have affected her ability to smile properly. Additionally, she sustained bruising and black eyes, along with bruises on her legs, ribs, and back.

In court, the woman delivered a powerful victim impact statement, describing the profound psychological toll the attack has taken on her. She stated, “Although I received significant physical injuries, the emotional and psychological damage to me has been just as horrific. The trauma and psychological distress this has caused me is immeasurable. I suffer with flashbacks, nightmares.” She also revealed that she is experiencing trauma responses, anxiety, and distressing panic attacks, feeling that her sense of safety and peace of mind has been irreparably shattered. She expressed that she feels “irrevocably changed” by the experience.

Detective Constable Jo Clement, who was involved in the case, described Machin as “a clearly extremely violent individual” and emphasized the severity of the assault, calling it “brutal, severe and life-changing.” She praised the victim for her bravery in speaking out and participating in the court process, hoping her courage will encourage other survivors to come forward and seek justice.

Machin pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm with intent and was subsequently sentenced to seven years and two months in prison. Additionally, he was issued a 10-year restraining order to prevent any contact with the victim. The case highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence and the importance of supporting survivors in their journey toward healing and justice.