Gerard Parkinson jailed for 28 years after Swanley hammer and knife attacks

A Sidcup man has been jailed for 28 years after attempting to murder two women in a violent attack at their Swanley home. Gerard Parkinson, 64, was convicted at Maidstone Crown Court on 31 July 2024 of two counts of attempted murder. He will serve an additional five years on licence following his release.

The assault took place on the morning of 1 March 2023 at a house on Bonney Way. Parkinson attacked the first victim in the kitchen, striking her with a club hammer and knocking her unconscious. He then went upstairs and stabbed the second victim, who was asleep, in the chest before hitting her with the hammer.

The second victim, despite serious injuries, managed to wrestle the weapon from Parkinson and scream for help. A relative who intervened was also injured. The woman escaped the house, but Parkinson attacked the first victim again as she regained consciousness and tried to leave. A neighbour restrained him until police arrived.

Victims hospitalised with serious injuries

Both women were taken to hospital. One suffered a punctured lung, as reported by *This Is Local London*. Parkinson, of Parkhill Road, Sidcup, denied the charges but was found guilty after a trial. He had previously admitted perverting the course of justice for attempting to persuade one victim to withdraw allegations while in custody.

Detective Sergeant Ashley Evans, who led the investigation, said the victims had shown tremendous courage throughout the case. He added that the sentence should help them feel safe, knowing Parkinson will be behind bars for a considerable time. The case was reported by *This Is Local London* on 31 July 2024.

What happens next

Parkinson will serve his 28-year sentence in prison. After his release, he will remain on licence for five years. The conditions of his licence have not been disclosed. The victims may be eligible for support through victim services provided by Kent Police and local authorities.