Three sentenced for horror Blackpool knife attack

David Watson

Three Blackpool teenagers have been sentenced for their part in a horror knife attack that left their victim confined to a wheelchair.

Two of them were jailed for a total of 18 years for the attack on 22-year-old Kieran Whitefiled who was left paralysed from his injuries.

David Watson, 18, of Singleton Street and a 17-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, were jailed for nine years each after pleading guilty to wounding with intent.

Zachery Penn, 18, of Kidbrooke Avenue, was sentenced to 52 weeks in jail, was suspended for two years after he admitted affray.

All three were sentenced by a judge at Preston Crown Court.

The court had heard how, on Saturday 29th August 2009, Kieran Whitfield was discovered by a passer by in Aintree Road, Blackpool, at the junction of St Annes Road, shortly after 5.30am.

He had suffered multiple stab wounds to his back, shoulder and chest and was in a serious condition.

He was taken by ambulance to Blackpool Victoria Hospital where he was treated for his injuries and he later spent time recovering in the specialist back injuries unit at Southport and Formby District General Hospital.

In total Kieran spent five months in hospital and will now spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair.

Detective Inspector Angela Grey said: “I am pleased with the sentences handed down by the judge today. This was an unprovoked, mindless and nasty attack which has left a young man, who was simply enjoying night out, lucky to be alive, but now having to spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair.

“Kieran Whitfield was attacked for no other reason than he was in the wrong place at the wrong time. He has shown immense courage over the past seven months and I hope he and his family can now begin rebuild their lives and move forward.

“Watson, Penn and the 17 year old boy had all been drinking on the night Kieran was attacked and their actions were definitely fuelled by alcohol.

"Lancashire Constabulary will not tolerate this behaviour and people should be warned that they will be brought to justice.”

Comments about Three sentenced for horror Blackpool knife attack