A man has been found guilty of the "horrific" attempted murder of his wife in Twickenham in February.
William Clapperton wad found guilty of attempted murder after an eight day trial that ended yesterday (Tuesday, December 15).
The court heard that in the early hours of Monday, February 17, Clapperton carried out a sustained and frenzied armed attack on his wife at their home address in Twickenham.
"In an alcohol-fuelled rage, after his wife revealed her intentions to end their marriage, Clapperton cut up a large amount of his wife’s clothing before carrying out a violent attack against her, subjecting her to hours of physical abuse with the clear intention of killing her," a Met Police spokesperson described.
"Clapperton ignored the victim’s repeated pleas for him to stop as he proceeded to inflict significant injuries to her face, neck and body.
"He attacked her with scissors, a chopping knife and his hands. Whilst doing this he told her that if she was ugly no one would want her anymore and she was going to die. She also sustained injuries to her hands and arms, whilst trying to protect herself.
"Images of the victim’s injuries were considered too horrific to be shown in court. Nine months on from the attack her surgical treatment remains ongoing," they added.
National Domestic Abuse Helpline
The victim, a woman in her 40s, offered a statement after the guilty conviction was confirmed.
"As a result of my injuries I am not the same anymore, and I will continue to have further surgery for the foreseeable future," she said.
"I provided for both William and I for many years and even today I can't believe the man I have known for 14 years, the man who told me every day that he loved me, would do this to me.
"I decided to end our relationship as it simply broke down. From now on I have to live with the scars to my face and am reminded every time I look in the mirror. He destroyed my life and I will never forget what he has done to me.
"I would like to personally thank the kind gentleman who helped me until the police and ambulance arrived, the doctors and nurses at St Marys Hospital who looked after me and the officers who have supported me and provided as much help as they can.
"I want to share my story for others and for the public to be informed that this happens, and it is real."
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