On 25 January 2023, an 18-year-old man was walking with a friend in Benstead Grove, when a vehicle was deliberately driven at them. The victim ran from the scene seeking help and was pursued by two people from the car he knew, Troy Gosden and Kai Theodule.

On reaching St Paul’s Avenue, Gosden assaulted the victim with a machete, while Theodule struck him with a rubbish bin and punched him several times. The assailants ran from the scene leaving the victim with a punctured lung and cuts to an arm and hands. He has since undergone surgery for his injuries. Gosden, of Charles Drayson Court, Faversham was arrested on 28 January and Theodule, of Maple Gardens, Canterbury was detained two days later.

Both were later charged. Gosden pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court to wounding with intent and possessing a machete in a public place, and Theodule to affray. On Monday 6 November, 18-year-old Gosden received five years and six months’ imprisonment. Theodule, also aged 18, was sentenced to 12 months in a young offenders institution, suspended for two years. He will also be subject to a three-month curfew and must complete rehabilitation activity and 100 hours unpaid work.

Detective Constable Alex Burgham, of North Kent CID, said: ‘This was an appalling assault on a young man that has left him with lasting injuries. Gosden went out that evening armed with a lethal machete intent on causing the victim harm. He is undoubtedly a violent individual and Faversham will be a safer place while he is serving his sentence.

‘I would like to thank the victim and witnesses whose assistance throughout the investigation has ensured this volatile criminal has been brought to justice.’