Thug Boasts After Acid Attack on Teenager
Gilson Martins, 23, of Ashton Street in Rochdale, has shocked the community with his despicable actions after throwing corrosive acid into the face of a 16-year-old boy in what has been described as an “insidious” revenge attack. The incident occurred last year in Stockport when Martins approached the teenager, demanded his coat, threw the substance in his face, and quickly fled the scene. Co-defendant Joanne Edwards, 45, was waiting for Martins and provided him with a getaway by driving him away from Brandon Road.
After perpetrating the attack, Martins callously bragged that it had “gone down a treat” and expressed confidence that the authorities would never catch him. The victim managed to seek initial aid at a friend’s residence to wash off the acid before being rushed to the hospital where he was treated for a significant chemical burn on his neck and face, as reported by the Manchester Evening News.
In the days following the assault, Martins displayed further disturbing behaviour by targeting Edwards’ 21-year-old son, revealing his plans for the attack and callously stating, “Imagine that on his skin? It’s going to melt his face off.” Subsequently, Martins broke into the son’s house, making violent threats and causing fear and distress.
During the trial at Minshull Street Crown Court, it was revealed that Martins had planned the acid attack as retribution for a past incident involving drug dealings with the victim. The court disclosed that Martins had made calculated preparations for the assault, even demonstrating the corrosive nature of the substance to others by showcasing burns on his own body caused by the acid.
Recorder David Temkin KC, in delivering the sentencing, emphasised the gravity of Martins’ actions, labelling the assault on the teenage victim as “extremely serious.” Despite attempts by Martins to justify his actions initially by claiming the victim possessed a knife, this allegation was promptly dismissed by prosecutors, highlighting the premeditated and unprovoked nature of the attack.
As Martins was handed a harsh sentence of eight years and two months for multiple charges including robbery, possession of a corrosive substance, intimidation, and drug-related offences, co-defendant Joanne Edwards received a community order, 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days, and a nine-month drug programme. The court proceedings underscored the severe consequences of Martins’ violent and criminal behaviour, leaving a lasting impact on the victim and his community.
In response to the case, Laura Keegan, a Senior Crown prosecutor for CPS North West, condemned Martins’ heinous actions and affirmed the commitment to holding perpetrators of such crimes accountable. The collaborative efforts between law enforcement and legal authorities were instrumental in securing the guilty pleas from Martins and Edwards, ensuring justice was served for the victim of the acid attack.
Detective Constable Heather Parke from GMP’s Stockport district reiterated the grave repercussions of corrosive substance attacks, acknowledging the enduring physical and emotional trauma inflicted on victims. The successful apprehension and prosecution of Martins signalled a resolute stance against violent crimes, reassuring the public of the diligent efforts to combat such incidents and uphold the rule of law within the community.