A Newry man who stabbed his estranged wife 19 times as their daughter fought to save her has failed in his bid to reduce his sentence. The Court of Appeal rejected Peter McCartney’s challenge to his sentence of 16 years and eight months imposed for attempting to murder his ex wife at her home.
Lady Chief Justice Dame Siobhan Keegan said: “This was a horrific crime perpetrated in a domestic setting.
“The victim was lucky not to be killed. She will be scarred for life, as will the children of this family.”
McCartney, 41, launched the premeditated knife attack after walking two miles to get to his ex-wife’s house in November 2020.
On arrival she was on the phone to her sister and all four of their children were present in the property.
Their 12-year-old daughter saw the stabbing and kicked McCartney three times in the face in an attempt to protect her mother.
At least two of the other children heard the incident and witnessed the immediate aftermath.
Dismissing McCartney’s appeal, Judge Keegan confirmed: “The trial judge was correct to impose the sentence that he did to reflect the crime that was committed.”
Appeal denied.
ENDS
CLANRYE NEWS 