Man jailed for life after vicious park attack in Salford
Shannon Meaney was sentenced at Manchester Crown Court today
A man has been jailed for life after leaving a Salford grandfather with life-changing injuries in a brutal attack more than two years ago.
34-year-old Shannon Meaney of no fixed address, was sentenced at Manchester Crown Court today (Tuesday 29 April 2025) to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of nine years before he can be considered for parole.
Meaney pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm with intent following the attack on John Lowe in Clarendon Park, Salford, in February 2023.
Greater Manchester Police said Mr Lowe, now in his 60s, suffered life-threatening injuries and requires round-the-clock care. Detectives from the force’s Serious Crime Division took over the investigation when John’s condition worsened, launching a complex inquiry involving extensive CCTV analysis and forensic work.
Officers matched a footprint imprinted on the side of John's head to Meaney’s trainer, leading to his arrest just days after the attack.
Detective Chief Inspector Neil Higginson said:
"Throughout this incident is a man and his loved ones who are having to come to terms with the consequences of this vicious attack which nearly cost John his life.
"We were determined to do everything possible to ensure Meaney has to face the consequences of his actions, knowing the impact they have had on John’s life. I would like to commend John’s family for their bravery, and the support they have given the investigation, especially his daughter."
In a powerful victim impact statement, John’s daughter described how her family's life had been “tragically changed forever”.
She said:
"Our loving, caring, gentle father, who was loved by all in his community for his huge smile and cheeky demeanour, was the victim of a senseless and cowardly attack.
Nearing 60 years of age, this brutal attack has left him with life-changing injuries and has altered the lives of all our family forever.
We were used to seeing our dad full of energy, the life and soul of the party. This attack has made him a shell of a person and all we can do is witness him deteriorate right before our eyes."
Police praised the family's courage throughout the investigation and welcomed the sentence as justice for John and his loved ones.