James McKenna Jailed 24 Years for Brutal Attack on Former Partner Joanne Sidaway

A man has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for the attempted murder of his former partner. James McKenna, 54, brutally attacked Joanne Sidaway with a knife in a park, prompting a significant police manhunt before his eventual capture.

Ms Sidaway was walking her dog in a Tipton park when McKenna accosted her, stabbing her multiple times. The assault, described by authorities as premeditated, left her with severe injuries requiring extensive medical intervention.

Following the attack, McKenna evaded capture for several days, triggering a widespread search involving multiple police units. He was ultimately apprehended after public appeals for information.

During sentencing, the court heard details of McKenna's history of domestic abuse and his deliberate targeting of Ms Sidaway. The judge underscored the terror inflicted upon the victim and the community during McKenna's period at large, highlighting the gravity of the attempted murder conviction.