Man from Manchester sentenced to 27 years in jail for attempt murder

Following an investigation by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) Rochdale CID, Joshua O’Dea (26/03/1990) of Moston, Manchester has been found guilty of attempt murder.

He attended Manchester Crown Court on Friday 30 August, where he was sentenced to 27 years in jail with an additional 5 years on extended license. 

A further defendant, Cain Hopkins (17/01/1994) was found not guilty at trial in July 2024.

The sentencing follows an incident on 14 January, where emergency services were called to an address on Baguely Crescent in Middleton, following reports that a man had been stabbed.

Prior to this the 24-year-old victim of the attack had been staying with his friend in a caravan parked on Baguely Crescent. They were woken on the morning of the attack by loud banging and shouting at the door.

O’Dea then forced his way into the caravan with an axe and a knife and set upon the victim.

His motive was money he believed the victim owed him. O'Dea launched an assault which resulted in him beating the victim, threatening to bite the victim’s ear off if he didn’t pay and cutting his arm with a knife.

The victim managed to escape the caravan and he was later found in the street with serious injuries by members of the public and the police were called.

DC Chauhan said: “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 brought to justice.”

We all have a part to play in fighting, preventing, and reducing knife crime. If you know or suspect someone is carrying a knife, please report it immediately. Greater Manchester Police can be contacted via gmp.police.uk or 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.

Anonymous reports can be made via the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Whilst 11-17-year-olds can make anonymous reports via Fearless.org