Winchester man jailed for longer for attempted murder
A man has had his sentence increased following an intervention by the Solicitor General
Mark Williams has had the minimum term of his life sentence increased following an intervention by the Solicitor General, the Rt Hon Lucy Frazer QC MP.
On 18 February 2021, Williams, 37, violently attacked a woman and her young daughter in their home. He brought with him a large knife, tape and ties, which he used to restrain and stab the first victim. He then proceeded to stab her daughter when she tried to call for help.
For over two hours he detained both victims, sexually assaulting the child before leaving them both bound and tied. They eventually managed to free themselves and call for help.
Later that same evening, Williams attacked another woman with a knife, cutting at her throat three times.
Two of the victims were left with serious life threatening injuries.
On 21 May 2021, Williams was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum sentence of 14 years for attempted murder at Winchester Crown Court. He was also convicted of wounding with intent, assault by penetration and false imprisonment.
On 21 July the Court of Appeal found his sentence to be unduly lenient and increased it to a minimum term of 18 years.
Speaking after the hearing the Solicitor General, the Rt Hon Lucy Frazer QC MP, said:
Williams brutally attacked three separate victims and I concluded that the original sentence did not adequately reflect the level of trauma they suffered. The offender is a danger to women, and I am pleased that the Court has seen fit to increase the minimum term of his life sentence.