DAVID RICHARDS SENTENCED TO 27 YEARS FOR BRUTAL AXE ATTACK IN STOCK, ESSEX

On March 13, 2023, a violent assault took place outside a residence in Stock, Essex, leaving a woman severely injured and prompting a lengthy prison sentence for the perpetrator. David Richards, aged 42, a man with a controversial past as a former manager of the well-known Dreamboys stripper group, was convicted of attempted murder following a brutal attack on his wife, Alex Alam, who is 32 years old.

Richards' actions on that night were premeditated and calculated. He had deliberately waited in the darkness outside Alam’s home, armed with an axe, and equipped with waterproof clothing and cable ties, which indicated he planned the assault in advance. The attack was described by the presiding judge as a 'bloodbath,' with Alam suffering a fractured skull and multiple cuts to her face and scalp. The severity of her injuries underscored the violent nature of the incident.

During the court proceedings, Alam delivered a heartfelt victim impact statement, which was read aloud by prosecutor William Carter. She expressed her profound sense of betrayal, stating, 'I’ve been utterly betrayed beyond belief by the person I chose to have children with, turning my life upside down. The scars are a constant reminder of what he did to me.' Her words highlighted the emotional and physical trauma inflicted by Richards.

Richards maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to the charges. However, after a trial, the jury found him guilty of attempted murder. In addition to this conviction, he was also found guilty of breaching a non-molestation order that had been previously issued against him. The court heard evidence of Richards’ obsessive and jealous behavior, including stalking Alam and monitoring her house prior to the attack. It was revealed that he had waited hours in the shadows until Alam was alone with her dogs in the yard, then confronted her. He managed to drag her into the house, where he briefly tied her up. Fortunately, Alam was able to free herself and call the police.

Richards attempted to break into the house with the axe but was unsuccessful. He then fled the scene, leading to a police chase that ended with his arrest. During the hearing, Richards attended via video link from HMP Chelmsford, where he is currently incarcerated. The court also issued a restraining order to prevent any further contact or harassment.

In sentencing, the judge emphasized the seriousness of Richards’ actions and the threat he posed to Alam’s safety. The court handed down a sentence of 27 years in prison, reflecting the gravity of the attempted murder charge and the violent nature of the attack. Richards’ case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of obsessive and violent behavior within intimate relationships.