A Hastings woman, Marlena Meczynska-Shiibashi, has been sentenced to seven years in prison after a violent assault on a man at her home. The 38-year-old grievously attacked the victim, who was known to her, using a knife and bleach in a shocking incident.
The assault took place on March 4, 2023, when the victim was attempting to sleep. Meczynska-Shiibashi retrieved a knife from the kitchen and bleach from the bathroom before stabbing him and pouring bleach into his eyes. When police arrived at the scene, she told officers: “I didn’t just stab him in the leg you know, I poured bleach in his eyes.”
The victim continues to suffer from the traumatic experience, experiencing flashbacks, anxiety, and depression.
On September 13, at Lewes Crown Court, Meczynska-Shiibashi was sentenced after admitting to causing grievous bodily harm with intent. The court rejected her claims about the victim’s behavior, following a thorough investigation by the Safeguarding Investigation Unit, which found no evidence to support her allegations.
Detective Constable Sally Coleman, the investigating officer, stated: “This was a violent and distressing case for the victim, who is still dealing with the impact and consequences. The court found that Meczynska-Shiibashi was angry with the victim and carried out an unprovoked attack.”
She added: “We are pleased that a dangerous offender is now in prison serving a significant sentence.”
Meczynska-Shiibashi, formerly of Mount Pleasant Road, Hastings, will serve a minimum of two-thirds of her sentence before being considered for parole. She will remain on licence for four years after completing her sentence, under an extended sentence due to the danger she poses to the public.
