Local Man Jailed For More Than 25 Years

A man has been given a 26-year jail term after a violent assault on a lone woman in Sittingbourne.

In the early hours of Sunday 11th December 2022, the victim was walking near Canterbury Road when she was approached by a man she knew, Matthew Breaker.

He suddenly launched a violent attack, hitting her repeatedly with a hammer before pinning her to the floor and thrusting a blade towards her face and torso.

Patrols were called to the incident and Breaker was arrested. They also seized the hammer and two knives.

Later the same day, the Crown Prosecution Service authorised a charge of attempted murder against Breaker. He was also charged with possession of a knife in a public place.

The case went to trial at Maidstone Crown Court and Breaker, of Swanstree Avenue, Sittingbourne, was found guilty of attempted murder. He had pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article.

The 46-year-old was sentenced on Thursday (31st August) to 26 years’ imprisonment. Upon his release, he will be subject to an extended licence period of four years. He will not be able to apply for parole until he has served at least two thirds of his sentence in prison.

Investigating officer DC Poppy Edwards told SFM News: "Matthew Breaker is a very violent individual who launched a sudden and brutal attack on a lone woman during the hours of darkness, after lying in wait for her to return home. His actions were appalling, and it is only right he is now behind bars. He inflicted atrocious injuries and has shown no remorse for the lasting impact this will have on his victim. I would like to commend the victim who has shown great courage in assisting our prosecution and helping us bring this dangerous individual to justice."

Click here for further information, advice and support relating to Violence Against Women and Girls. This page also includes details on how Kent Police is tackling offences including domestic abuse, stalking, harassment and other forms of violence.

If you have been a victim of violence and wish to report an offence to Kent Police, click here.