Man jailed over Brighton machete attack on friend

William Miller has been jailed for over 13 years

A man has been jailed for attacking a friend with a machete, leaving him with life-changing injuries.

William Miller, 43, carried out the assault at his own home in Whitehawk Close, Brighton, East Sussex, in July.

He was convicted of wounding with intent and grievous bodily harm with intent and on Thursday was sentenced to 13 years and four months in prison, with a further three years and eight months to be spent on licence.

The judge at Lewes Crown Court also imposed a restraining order on him.

Police said the attack happened when Miller and the victim, a 36-year-old man, returned to the property after drinking together.

An argument over the use of a phone charger turned violent, with the victim suffering lacerations to his head, back and hands.

He managed to call 999, with the call handler hearing Miller in the background saying: “I will chop you up right here."

He fled before officers arrived but later handed himself in.

'Critically injured'

Investigating officer Emily Farley said: "Miller carried out a violent assault using a machete, leaving his victim critically injured.

“We are pleased that a dangerous offender has now been taken off our streets.”

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.