A man has been sentenced to 27 years in prison for stabbing his partner multiple times following her discovery of him in bed with another man. Ryan Leggett, 35, used a knife to attack the woman, causing severe injuries to her neck, chest, lungs, and liver. The incident occurred when Leggett’s partner unexpectedly returned home and found him naked with another man along with cocaine on November 23.
Judge Martyn Levett stated that Leggett’s actions displayed unpredictability and dangerous tendencies, especially under the influence of drugs. Leggett was also given an extended license period of three years post his release, with a requirement to serve two-thirds of his sentence before being considered for parole. Additionally, an indefinite restraining order was issued preventing Leggett from contacting the victim or her family.
The court heard that Leggett left the victim in critical condition after the attack, locking her inside the residence. The woman suffered life-threatening injuries, including eight stab wounds, fractured ribs, punctured lung, and internal bleeding. Leggett, residing in Carlton Colville, denied attempted murder but was found guilty by a jury.
The couple, who had been in a relationship for four years, had a confrontation when the victim arrived home in the early hours to find Leggett in a compromising situation. Leggett, in a fit of rage, assaulted the woman after an argument, causing her severe harm. The victim recounted the terrifying experience, expressing fear and ongoing trauma from the incident.
Leggett’s arrest was made promptly after a neighbor intervened and alerted authorities. The victim’s statement highlighted the lasting impact of the attack on her mental well-being and the need to relocate due to safety concerns. She expressed feeling haunted by the events and the deception she experienced in the relationship.