A man from Ingol has been sentenced to six years' imprisonment after launching a violent attack at a flat in Preston that left the victim with lasting injuries and psychological trauma.
Attack at the flat
The incident, which occurred on Halloween last year, began with the defendant arriving at the victim's home armed with a knife and demanding “money or weed”. CCTV showed the defendant shouting threats outside the property before forcing his way in.
Once inside, the defendant repeatedly punched the victim in the face. The victim managed to seize the knife during the confrontation, but the assault continued. He staggered from his home, disfigured and vomiting, and was admitted to hospital the following day.
Serious injuries and life-changing consequences
Medical examinations recorded multiple facial fractures. Surgeons inserted metal plates into the victim’s cheekbone. Long-term effects documented by clinicians include distorted vision, numbness and permanent scarring. The victim has also been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
In a victim impact statement read to the court, he explained the attack had stopped him from working and caused financial hardship. He said the injuries damaged his relationship with his children because he did not want them to see him, and their mother feared for their safety. He now conceals his face when leaving his flat.
“You deliberately armed yourself and went round to his flat. There was an immediate altercation in which you were shouting abuse, threats and you were a big man,”
The words above were reported as part of the judge’s remarks when passing sentence.
Court process and background
The defendant, identified in court as a 33-year-old man from Sylvancroft, Ingol, admitted wounding with intent. He was returned to custody after the hearing. The court was told he was on licence at the time of the attack, having previously served a 10-year sentence for drug-related offences.
The victim declined to assist police with their investigation and did not attend court when the case was due to go to trial. Despite that, the prosecution proceeded and the defendant pleaded guilty to the offence.
Sentence and local impact
The sentence imposes six years' imprisonment for wounding with intent. The attack has had clear and continuing effects on the victim’s health, finances and family life.
- Location: Flat in Ingol, Preston
- Date of attack: Halloween (31 October, previous year)
- Offence: Wounding with intent
- Sentence: Six years' imprisonment
| Offender | Age | Charge | Sentence | Address |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Levi Wilson | 33 | Wounding with intent | 6 years | Sylvancroft, Ingol |
The case underlines a persistent local issue: disputes linked to drug activity can spill into extreme violence, leaving victims with long-term physical and psychological harm. For neighbours and families in Ingol and wider Preston, the sentence will be a reminder of the risks that follow drug-related conflicts and of the consequences for those who carry knives to settle disputes.
Police, courts and support services will now be involved in managing the aftermath — from enforcement to victim support. The victim’s decision not to assist police did not stop the legal process, but it does highlight the complex position victims can face when threats, fear or community pressures are involved.
This sentencing is a clear message from the courts about the severity with which they view premeditated, knife‑related assaults. Locally, agencies will need to keep working to prevent such offences and to support those affected when they occur.
