Crack Cocaine Addicts Receive Jail Time for Vicious Hatchet Assault

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Two crack cocaine addicts who subjected a Co Antrim businessman to an 'horrendous' hatchet attack in his home were today (Monday) handed sentences of eight-and-a-half-years. Judge Philip Gilpin told Paul Patterson and Andrea Wilson they will each spend four years and three months in custody with an identical period on licence following their release from prison...

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The Probation Board assessed both defendants as not posing a danger to the public. In a victim impact statement, the businessman said he is still on pain relief medication for his injuries, he has stepped up security at his home and has been left so unsettled by the attack he is even considering selling up his home and business and relocating. Defence barristers said Patterson and Wilson were both equally culpable for their actions. Both blamed each other for starting to use crack cocaine and for instigating the burglary. Patterson’s defence barrister Sean Doherty said the defendant had 'express