Police increase patrols after three '˜worrying' attacks involving knives

Police are continuing to investigate three separate incidents in which three men were hit in the head.

A man was attacked after he chased an intruder out of his home in Lyons Road, in Slinfold, on Wednesday, June 8, police said.

Officers said the attacker produced a knife, which he had taken from a Land Rover Defender parked outside, when challenged by the home owner before punching him in the head.

The suspect is described as white, in his 30s, 5’ 11”, of slim build, balding with dark hair. He has an English accent.

Police said a Land Rover satnav was also stolen from the Defender and two pairs of Porsche sunglasses were taken from inside the house.

In the early hours of the same day, a man was discovered in a block of flats in Burnham Place, Park Terrace East, Horsham, with a head injury and stab wounds, officers said.

He was found in a serious condition and was rushed to hospital.

Four people were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and have been bailed until August 12 whilst enquiries continue.

On Sunday May 29 a teenager was hit over the head with a brick and given death threats as he walked down Lambs Farm Road in the town.

The 18-year-old, who spoke to the County Times but asked to remain anonymous, said he saw something in the attackers hand wrapped in cloth which looked like a knife.

Police said the incident took place at around 9.45pm and there were no reports a knife was used in the attack.

PCC Katy Bourne said all three attacks were ‘very worrying’.

She said: “Knife crime is something that I and Sussex Police take very seriously. I monitor crime reports and any trends from across Sussex and have regular briefings with Chief Officers and with senior officers in each district during which I often raise specific concerns of local communities.

“The recent attacks in Horsham are understandably very worrying for residents and they have had serious consequences for the victims and their families.

“Sussex Police say there is currently no evidence to suggest the attacks are linked, but they will be increasing targeted patrols in the area.

“In the meantime, I would encourage anyone who has any information that might help police with their enquiries to call 101.”

Sergeant Martin Drabble said: “There is no perceived danger to the wider public.

“Safety plans are in place commensurate to the threat, harm and risk posed to the persons involved.

“All three separate incidents quoted will be fully investigated and have been passed to investigations teams or the priority crime team for further enquiries.

“Police will be increasing patrols as deemed necessary and responding to intelligence and information as it develops.”

He added there was currently ‘no information’ to suggest violent crimes were on the rise in the district.

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