A Nottingham mother has been sentenced to 15 years behind bars after orchestrating a brutal hammer attack on her ex-husband's new partner in a fit of jealous rage.
Claire Button, 45, from Carlton, launched the vicious assault on Samantha Wilson outside her own home, leaving the victim with catastrophic injuries that have permanently altered her life.
The Vicious Assault
The court heard how Button lay in wait for Ms Wilson before attacking her with a hammer in a sustained and brutal assault. The victim suffered multiple fractures to her face, skull, and arms as she desperately tried to defend herself from the blows.
Prosecutors described how Button's attack was premeditated and driven by jealousy over her former husband's new relationship. The violence was so severe that Ms Wilson required extensive surgery and continues to suffer from both physical and psychological trauma.
Life-Changing Consequences
In a powerful victim impact statement read to Nottingham Crown Court, Ms Wilson revealed the devastating toll the attack has taken on her life. She spoke of constant pain, anxiety, and the permanent scarring that serves as a daily reminder of the horrific incident.
"The physical and emotional scars will remain with me forever," she told the court. "I no longer feel safe in my own home and live in constant fear."
Justice Served
Judge James Sampson condemned Button's actions as "cowardly and brutal" during sentencing. He emphasized that the severity of the sentence reflected the premeditated nature of the attack and the life-changing injuries inflicted upon the victim.
"This was a sustained and vicious assault using a weapon on a defenseless woman," Judge Sampson stated. "No sentence can undo the damage caused, but it must reflect the gravity of your actions."
Button was found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and will serve a minimum of 15 years before being considered for parole.
