Connor Hyland-Whiting jailed for Bexhill machete attack

Lewes Crown Court heard how Connor Hyland-Whiting stabbed the man following an altercation inside a pub in London Road, Bexhill, on February 24 this year.

Hyland-Whiting and the victim had to be separated by security staff, and witnesses described Hyland-Whiting as becoming “irate” and assaulting a security guard.

After being removed, he was later seen emerging from a vehicle with a machete and assaulting the victim in the town centre before running off.

Connor Hyland-Whiting (Image: Sussex Police)

The victim suffered injuries consistent with a stabbing and required hospital treatment.

The 25-year-old had also committed similar offences in the town.

A month earlier, Hyland-Whiting was involved in separate violent incidents.

He was also involved in an affray at a premises in Mount Road, Hastings, in the early hours of January 22, where he was seen holding a knife.

Following a public appeal, he was located at a holiday park in Camber Sands and was arrested and charged with the violent offences.

The crime scene following the machete attack in Bexhill (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

At Lewes Crown Court on September 11, he admitted wounding with intent,  possession of an offensive weapon, possession of a knife, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and affray.

He was sentenced to a total of five years in prison, with an additional four years on his licence period.

Hyland-Whiting’s offences were deemed so serious that he will not be automatically released halfway through serving his sentence, but instead must serve a minimum of two-thirds of the term before he can then be considered for parole.

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Speaking after the case, Chief Superintendent Adam Hays said: “We understand these incidents caused concern among the local community, and I’d like to thank the public for the support they gave to our investigation.

“We are grateful for the information received by the public in order to locate Hyland-Whiting following a public appeal.

“This case shows our determination to bring offenders to justice.

“It required great teamwork and professionalism across the force to conduct the extensive investigation and ensure a successful outcome in court.

“Tackling knife crime and serious violence is one of our top priorities as we understand the devastating impact it can have on victims, and the wider public.

“So we are pleased that a dangerous offender has been taken off the streets.”