Woman jailed following Macclesfield stabbing

A woman who stabbed her partner at a house in Macclesfield has been jailed.

Leanne Melling appeared at Chester Crown Court on Monday 6 October where she was sentenced to five years in prison.

The 34-year-old, of Ripon Close in Whitefield, had previously pleaded guilty to a section 18 assault.

The court heard how Melling and the victim were in a relationship at the time of the incident, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday 19 January.

The couple had been arguing throughout the day and in a bid to deescalate the situation, the victim decided to go to sleep in a separate room.

Undeterred, Melling followed the victim, intent on continuing their dispute. However, when the victim didn’t comply, Melling took a knife and stabbed the victim to his abdomen. In an attempt to disarm her, the victim also sustained a serious stab wound to the hand.

Thankfully, the victim managed to gain possession of the knife, throwing it across the room before fleeing. He held the door closed from the outside, locking Melling in and preventing any further attacks. He then called 999.

Officers quickly attended the address and Melling was arrested at the scene and later charged in connection with the incident.

The victim was treated by paramedics before being taken to hospital where he received treatment for his injuries.

Following the sentencing, Detective Sergeant Steven Kaminski, who led the investigation said: 

“This was an extremely violent attack which left an innocent man seriously injured and fearing for his life.

“Melling’s actions during this incident are completely unacceptable, and the sentence handed to her is reflective of the horror she inflicted on the victim that day.

“While the victim will never be able to forget what happened, I do hope that the swift conclusion of the case, and the sentence handed to Melling, will provide him with some closure and the opportunity to move on with his life.”

Detective Constable Oliver Neilson-Bird said: 

“No one should be treated this way in any relationship, and I would like to commend the victim for his bravery in coming forward and engaging with our investigation. I hope he can now rebuild his life and move on from this truly traumatic experience.

“This case highlights domestic violence can affect anybody, and I would encourage anyone who has been a victim to please get in touch. You will be listened to and we will provide you with the support you need.”

To report any incidents of domestic abuse contact Cheshire police on 101, or report online:

https://www.cheshire.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/

In an emergency always call 999.

Pictured - Leanne Melling of Ripon Close in Whitefield.