"Horrific" attempted murder puts man behind bars for 27 years

Joshua O’Dea

A man has been sentenced to 27 years in prison for a brutal attempted murder that took place in Middleton. Joshua O’Dea, a 34-year-old from Moston was found guilty following an investigation by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) Rochdale CID.

The sentencing occurred at Manchester Crown Court, where O’Dea was also given an additional five years on extended licence, reflecting the severity of his actions.

The incident unfolded on 14 January 2024 on Baguely Crescent, Middleton. The 24-year-old victim had been staying in a caravan parked on the street with a friend.

Early that morning, they were startled awake by loud banging and shouting at the door. O’Dea forced his way into the caravan, armed with an axe and a knife, and launched a vicious attack on the victim.

O'Dea’s motive was a debt he believed the victim owed him. The assault escalated as O’Dea beat the victim, threatened to bite off his ear, and inflicted a severe cut to his arm with a knife.

Despite the brutality of the attack, the victim managed to escape the caravan and was later found in the street with serious injuries by passers-by, who called the police.

Detective Constable Chauhan of GMP commented: “This was a terrifying and horrific assault which could have cost the victim his life. I am pleased the sentence today reflects the brutality of O’Dea’s actions and demonstrates the zero-tolerance approach we take to violence and knife crime in Greater Manchester.

"Anyone who carries weapons or seeks to bring harm to others will be brought before the courts, and GMP will exercise every power at our disposal to ensure victims are protected and offenders are brought to justice.”

In addition to O'Dea's conviction, a second defendant, 30-year-old Cain Hopkins, was found not guilty during a trial held in July 2024.

Greater Manchester Police is urging residents to help in the fight against knife crime.

If you know or suspect someone is carrying a knife, you are encouraged to report it immediately. You can contact Greater Manchester Police via their website at gmp.police.uk or by calling 101.

In an emergency, always dial 999. Anonymous reports can also be made through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, and young people aged 11-17 can report anonymously via Fearless.org