Pair jailed after boiling water poured on disabled woman

A couple who poured boiling water on their disabled friend after an argument have been jailed for a combined 18 years.

The victim had been socialising with Emily Banks and Stephen Turner on the night of 8 July 2023 in Nottingham city centre.

The woman, aged in her 50s, had been out for drinks and food with Turner before Banks joined them at a pub.

They then went to Turner’s home in Hazelwood Road where an argument took place while Turner was making the victim a cup of coffee.

Turner, aged 69, held the kettle and flicked boiling water at the victim before Banks pushed her to the floor.

Thirty-year-old Banks then poured the full kettle over the victim, who could not get up because of her disability.

The victim eventually managed to escape from the property where she sought help from two passers-by who called the emergency services.

Police arrested Turner and Banks in the early hours of the following morning.

The victim needed extensive treatment in hospital after being left with burns to 15 per cent of her body, covering much of her torso, the top of her arms and shoulders.

Banks and Turner denied the offence but were found guilty of committing grievous bodily harm with intent after a trial.

The pair were both jailed when they appeared at Nottingham Crown Court for sentencing on Friday (8 March).

Banks, of The Friary, Nottingham, received a 10-year sentence and Turner, of Hazelwood Road, was locked up for eight years.

Detective Constable Jack Beecroft, of Nottinghamshire Police, said:

“This was an appalling attack on a disabled woman who could not defend herself.

“It is difficult to imagine the pain and terror she must have experienced when this full kettle of boiling water was poured on her, and she was attacked by people she knew.

“Banks and Turner then failed to admit the offence – putting the victim through further anxiety and the ordeal of a crown court trial.

“I am pleased our investigation was able to untangle their lies and they have now been put behind bars.”