Gosport man jailed after stabbing victim in the neck in "senseless attack"

Joshua Leigh Walder, of Cooperage Green in Gosport, has been sentenced to more than three and a half years in prison after appearing before Portsmouth Crown Court on February 13 having previously pleading guilty to wounding with intent and possession of a bladed article last month.

Police officers were called to a report of an altercation in Magennis Close, Gosport, at 8.05am on Saturday, December 6, 2025. The court heard how a man in his 40s was located with a serious wound to his neck before being rushed to hospital for treatment. The victim is now recovering at home.

Officers found a knife nearby and the 35-year-old was subsequently arrested following police enquiries and charged.

District Commander for Fareham and Gosport, Chief Inspector Marcus Kennedy, said: “Walder carried out a senseless attack and the consequences could have been significantly worse for the victim who was taken to hospital to be treated for life-threatening injuries.

“Anyone who picks up a knife is making a decision which creates the very real risk that you could kill or seriously injure someone.

Get access to trustworthy local news for a fiver when you sign up for a digital subscription to The News.

“We hope that anyone thinking of carrying a knife recognises that there are serious consequences both for themselves and others when they make that decision to pick up a weapon.”

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary has been cracking down on knife crime over the past few years with targeted operations, engagement and education.

Chief Inspector Kennedy added: “We regularly make proactive efforts to target knife carriers and remove weapons from the streets.

“Our officers will do everything in their power to ensure those who choose to carry knives are arrested, charged and put before the courts.”

For more information about the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, click here.