Man jailed after 'hammer attack' on teenager in St Helens

On November 29, 2021, officers were called to an assault of a 17-year-old boy outside the Red Lion pub on Robins Lane, Sutton.

The incident is said to have escalated on to roads surrounding the pub, with a "household corrosive substance" being poured on the victim.

The victim was also struck with a hammer and threatened with a knife.

Both the victim and attacker were taken to hospital to receive treatment for their wounds.

Thomas Cawley, of no fixed address, was arrested the next day and charged with assault.

He was sentenced to eight years and one month at Liverpool Crown Court yesterday (Wednesday, May 11).

Cawley was due to stand trial for causing grievous bodily harm with intent, but changed his plea to guilty on the day.

The Red Lion pub in Sutton

Speaking about the case, Detective Inspector Lisa Milligan said: “We welcome this sentence and that Cawley has been punished in the courts and is now behind bars after this shocking display of violence.

“This was a vicious and nasty attack on a 17-year-old male where Cawley poured a household corrosive substance on him. 

“The victim was then pinned him down and hit a number of times in the face with a hammer. Cawley also threatened the victim with a knife.

“The victim was left with extensive facial swelling and bruising, cuts to his face and has lost two teeth from the attack. 

"I hope Cawley now uses the time in jail to reflect on his behaviour, and the significant impact it has had on his victim.”