2013: ‘UNSTABLE’ MAN JAILED AFTER THREATENING TO SLIT EX-PARTNER'S THROAT ‘FROM EAR TO EAR’
A VIOLENT, unstable man branded a high risk for serious offending has been jailed for four years.Robby Sandford, of Aylestone Hill, Hereford, has started a prison sentence for threatening to slit the throats of his ex-partner and new boyfriend “from ear to ear.” At Worcester Crown Court, Judge John Cavell said Sandford, aged 23, was a “high risk” for committing further serious offences in future, according to evidence from medical reports.
The court heard how a probation officer reported Sandford to be one of the most dangerous clients she had ever met.
Sandford, with a history of violence and dishonesty, was convicted of making a threat to kill and admitted possession of an offensive weapon.
The court heard how Sandford was referred to the mental health services after being found in possession of a home-made knuckle duster and, during a consultation, told a psychiatrist that he would slit the throats of his ex-partner and her new boyfriend from ear to ear.
Sandford, the court heard, was suffering from a personality disorder with a number of unstable features.
He sentenced to four years jail with an extended prison licence on his release of a further four years.
Shane Crawford, prosecuting, said Sandford called police in July to report that he was in possession of a craft knife and was going to “take his frustration out” on someone.
A police officer on mobile patrol saw Sandford walking in Marden.
He was arrested with a rock climbing aid adapted as a knuckle duster in his possession.
Sandford was referred to a psychiatrist by magistrates and she was so shocked by his threat to kill that she immediately notified police, the court heard.
Adam Western, defending, said Sandford’s threat was “no more than words and a gesture” to a seasoned professional.
