Shovel-wielding drug dealer sentenced over attack

A "well-known" drug dealer who fled after committing a brutal attack with a shovel has been sentenced to six years in a young offenders' institute.

Matthew David Heap struck his victim multiple times on the head and shoulder in Scarborough last summer, leaving them with a fractured shoulder and needing stitches to their head.

The 18-year-old, of Barrowcliff Road in the town, admitted wounding with intent and possession with intent to supply Class A drugs at Hull Crown Court on Monday 13 January.

Det Con Sam Rivers from North Yorkshire Police said: "We believe some witnesses hesitated to come forward due to fear of repercussions, making this case challenging."

After escaping from the scene on Barrowcliff Road on 4 August 2024, Heap was arrested in Humberside, where he was found in possession of 30 wraps of heroin and a "burner" phone.

Police also recovered the weapon near the scene in bushes at the junction between Green Lane and Colescliffe Road, with DNA on it matching both the attacker and his victim.

Det Con Rivers added: "Heap has been a source of fear in this community for some time.

"Residents can take comfort in knowing this violent individual is off the streets thanks to the bravery of the victim, who stood firm and provided crucial evidence."

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