A teenager has been jailed after a violent samurai sword attack in Portslade that left another boy seriously injured.
The incident happened on the evening of July 10, when emergency services were called to Franklin Road following reports that a 15-year-old boy had been slashed during a confrontation. The victim suffered serious injuries to his arms and was taken to hospital for treatment. Fortunately, he has since made a full physical recovery.
Police swiftly launched an investigation and arrested two suspects. One of them, Rhys Wyman, now aged 18 and from Eastbourne, was later charged with possession of a bladed article in a public place, possession of an offensive weapon, and causing grievous bodily harm with intent. A 17-year-old boy from Brighton, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was also charged in connection with the attack.
Both appeared before Brighton Magistrates’ Court on July 12. Wyman was remanded in custody while the younger defendant was released on bail. However, the 17-year-old was later rearrested after breaching his bail conditions and remains in custody pending further hearings.
Wyman’s case was heard in court on August 26, where he was found guilty of possessing an offensive weapon and attempting to cause grievous bodily harm. The court described the assault as “violent and brazen”, noting the reckless nature of using a sword in a public place and the danger posed to the wider community.
At a sentencing hearing on September 29, Wyman was handed a 20-month prison sentence.
Detective Constable Harry Judge, who led the investigation, said:
“Wyman has now been jailed for this violent and brazen assault, committed without a thought for the consequences. The victim has thankfully made a physical recovery, and the injuries from the sword, though serious, could have easily been far more significant.”
The case has sparked concern in Portslade and surrounding areas, where residents have voiced fears over rising youth violence and the presence of weapons on the streets. Community leaders have urged young people to think about the long-term consequences of carrying knives or weapons, while police have reassured the public that targeted patrols and intervention programmes remain in place.
The 17-year-old co-defendant is due to appear before Brighton Magistrates’ Court on October 14.
Sussex Police continue to appeal for any witnesses or anyone with information about the attack on Franklin Road to come forward.
Information can be reported to Sussex Police online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Franklin.
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