Benjamin Appleby (pictured) wielded the weapon inside his living room after a night of socialising in February 2019 turned sour.

Despite having been friends with his victim for a number of years, the 29-year-old attacker suddenly became incensed and accused his mate of stealing one of his girlfriend’s rings.

He then picked up a machete and swung it – with the blade nearly severing the victim’s finger after he had held up his hands to defend himself.

When we attended the scene on Cheadle Road, we found the victim unconscious and a machete hidden down the back of Appleby’s sofa.

 

 Appleby pleaded guilty to wounding with intent and was jailed for 5 years and 3 months at Newcastle Crown Court.

We hope this outcome gives the victim some comfort and acts as a serious lesson to anyone who carries and uses a blade – you will be caught, you will be arrested, and you will be brought to justice.’