Man jailed for "unprovoked" assault in Bournemouth
Ralph Howton, 44, assaulted a man he knew at an address in Bournemouth in July this year (2026)
A man has been jailed after seriously inuring another man in an unprovoked attack in Bournemouth.
Ralph Howton, 44, of Bournemouth, was sentenced to five years in prison with an extended license period of three years at Bournemouth Crown Court on Friday (9th October).
What happened
Howton assaulted a man he knew at an address in Wolverton Road on the morning of Saturday 18th July 2026.
The victim suffered a puncture wound to his chest, which officers suspected had been caused by a kitchen knife.
He was taken to hospital for treatment to injuries that were described as serious.
Detectives carried out enquiries, and Howton was located and arrested on suspicion of section 18 wounding with intent.
Police said that during his arrest, Howton was verbally abusive towards officers and tried to escape from them.
One officer suffered a hand injury as a result of his resistance, and Howton was further arrested for resisting a constable.
He was charged with both offences and pleaded guilty at Bournemouth Crown Court on Thursday 20th August 2026.
Police statement
Detective Sergeant Cameron Thompson, of Dorset Police, said: "This was an unprovoked and nasty assault by Ralph Howton, leaving the victim with a serious injury to his chest.
"We responded swiftly to attend the scene, with officers ensuring the victim received immediate medical care while also quickly identifying witnesses and forensic opportunities.
"The fast-time enquiries by detectives that followed identified Howton as the attacker. I am pleased we were able to bring him before court to face justice for his violent actions.
"We take knife related offences very seriously and will continue our efforts to remove knife crime from the streets. I would like to be clear that there is no excuse for carrying a knife and we will relentlessly pursue those who choose to carry them and commit offences."