In a shocking case of violence, Jivan Dean, 24, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for an attack that left 21-year-old Raven Riley permanently blind. The incident occurred on August 14 at Tipi Valley, an eco-community near Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire, where Dean threw a pan of sodium hydroxide in a fit of rage.
Swansea Crown Court was informed that Mr. Riley’s eyesight has not returned since the attack, and he suffers from severe chemical burns, resulting in scars across his head, face, neck, and chest. Dean pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent and was also charged with using a dangerous substance with intent to harm.
Judge Geraint Walters condemned the act as a “cold, calculated, deliberate act of unimaginable cruelty,” intended to maim Mr. Riley for life. Prosecuting barrister Carina Hughes revealed that the attack stemmed from Dean’s unfounded suspicions about Mr. Riley’s interactions with his girlfriend. Witnesses confirmed that Dean, acting out of character, prepared the corrosive substance in the kitchen before launching the attack, shouting, “stay away from my girlfriend.”
The aftermath was harrowing, with Mr. Riley screaming for help as the caustic liquid burned his skin and damaged nearby furniture. He was rushed to the hospital, where doctors treated his serious injuries but could not guarantee any recovery of his eyesight. In a moving victim impact statement, Mr. Riley expressed the emotional toll of the attack, stating, “My independence has been cruelly taken away from me. I no longer feel safe.”
Dean was arrested two days later, with forensic tests revealing traces of sodium hydroxide on his clothing. Defense attorney Richard Ace claimed Dean’s immaturity and lack of formal education contributed to his actions, noting that he has no prior criminal record. However, Judge Walters emphasized the disturbing nature of the crime and expressed disbelief at Dean’s apparent lack of remorse.
In addition to his prison sentence, Dean has been issued a lifelong restraining order, prohibiting any contact with Mr. Riley. This case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of violent crime and the need for justice in the face of such brutality.
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