Shocking CCTV footage has revealed the terrifying moment when a machete-wielding thug ran amok in a local convenience store, leaving customers fearing for their lives. The violent incident occurred in Bolton, Greater Manchester, and resulted in serious injuries to one victim.
Violent Attack in Broad Daylight
The court heard how Dale Dean, aged 27, chased his victim around the shop before slashing him with an eight-inch blade. The attack took place just before 8pm on April 5 last year, with a mother and her two children cowering in terror as the violence unfolded.
Serious Injuries and Lasting Trauma
Police officers arriving at the scene discovered a man with serious injuries to his head and shoulder, who required immediate hospital treatment. Manchester Crown Court was told the unnamed victim continues to suffer ongoing pain and sleeping problems following the traumatic knife attack.
The CCTV footage, obtained by the Manchester Evening News, shows Dean dressed in shorts and a large black coat, initially standing casually by the till behind a mother and her two children. However, the situation quickly escalated when two men entered the shop.
Chaotic Scene Captured on Camera
Dean can be seen running across the aisle and charging at the men with the huge blade that had been concealed inside his coat. The victims attempted to defend themselves by throwing a shelving unit into his path, but Dean continued his violent assault.
The attacker then leaned over the counter, repeatedly raining down blows with the machete while simultaneously pushing shelves of goods onto the floor. In a particularly alarming moment, Dean climbed on top of the counter and lashed down with the blade before making his escape.
Substantial Prison Sentence Imposed
On Friday, Dean was jailed for six years at Manchester Crown Court after pleading guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent, possession of a blade, and affray. The court also imposed an additional 20-month extended licence period upon his release, citing the seriousness of the offence and the ongoing danger he poses to the public.
Detective Constable Jordan Brown of the Bolton Criminal Investigation Department at Greater Manchester Police stated that Dean's sentence reflected the gravity of his crime. 'This was a shocking and violent incident that left the victim with serious injuries and caused fear within the community,' the officer said.
Police Condemn 'Deliberate and Dangerous' Actions
'Dean's actions were deliberate, dangerous, and showed a blatant disregard for the safety of others,' Detective Constable Brown continued. 'He used or threatened unlawful violence, causing significant fear to those nearby, and was found to be carrying a machete without lawful reason.'
The police officer welcomed the substantial sentence, noting that it properly reflected the severity of the offences. 'Our officers will continue to take decisive action against those who carry weapons and commit violent offences on our streets,' he added, emphasizing the police commitment to community safety.
Dean, who has a distinctive tattoo on his left calf, was described by authorities as having shown 'blatant disregard' for public safety during the violent rampage. The extended licence period imposed by the court ensures he will remain under supervision for an additional 20 months following his prison release.
