A MAN who stabbed a 15-year-old boy and tried to hide the knife in an oven has been jailed.

Joseph Heavey, 32, carried out the attack during an argument with the boy in Seaside, Eastbourne on January 11, 2021.

The teenager was visiting a friend who lived in the same building as Heavey when they began arguing, he then ran from the property and the disagreement continued on the street.

Heavey is then seen on CCTV going back inside and coming out with a knife. 

He then stabbed the boy, causing a serious wound to the boy’s left arm.

Police officers on patrol found the boy moments later after he ran away. 

The Argus: Joseph Heavey. Photo: Sussex PoliceJoseph Heavey. Photo: Sussex Police (Image: Sussex Police)

He was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton for surgery.

Back inside the property, Heavey tried to hide the knife in the oven before being arrested.

The knife was found and he was later charged with wounding with intent.

Heavey was found guilty of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm by a jury in August 2021.

He appeared at Lewes Crown Court on September 2 and was sentenced to eight years and six months in prison with a further three years on extended licence.

Heavey, unemployed, of Old London Road in Hastings, was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £190.

Investigating officer DC Glen Saunders said: “Heavey showed extreme levels of violence to inflict a serious injury on a boy who was aged just 15 at the time.

"He hasn’t accepted responsibility for his actions at any stage, despite hearing the distressing impact the assault continues to have on his victim.

“The victim is 17 years old now and should be out enjoying life with his friends. Instead, he struggles daily to overcome the physical and emotional trauma caused by this incident.

“This was an attack that happened in broad daylight on a busy street in Eastbourne, and I know it also caused concern among the local community at the time.

“I hope this result reassures people that knife crime is taken incredibly seriously by police and the courts, and those who choose to carry and use a weapon will face lengthy sentences as a result.

“We’re pleased to see the judge reflect the seriousness of this offence by handing Heavey an extended 11-and-a-half year sentence.”

You can report knife crime online or by calling 101. In an emergency always call 999.

To report knife crime anonymously go to https://www.fearless.org/en/give-info.