A man described as “cruel” and “calculated” has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for attempting to kill his estranged wife by driving into her deliberately and then assaulting her with a baseball bat. Laurence Worville, 51, was convicted of attempted murder following an incident in Hull where the victim suffered severe injuries, including a broken leg, head wound, and a finger fracture.
Worville, who had recently been released from prison, located his wife by accessing mail redirection information from his former workplace. The court heard that he harbored anger towards his wife for neglecting his koi carp while he was incarcerated.
The CCTV footage presented during the trial depicted the harrowing attack, showing Worville driving his car towards the woman, striking her, and then proceeding to physically assault her with the bat. Passersby intervened to stop the assault, with some individuals commended for their brave actions.
In sentencing Worville, Judge John Thackray KC highlighted the premeditated nature of the attack, emphasizing Worville’s lack of remorse and attempts to justify his actions. The victim, in her impact statement, expressed ongoing fear and physical repercussions from the incident, underscoring the lasting trauma inflicted by the assault.
Detective Inspector Helen Collier characterized Worville as a dangerous individual who orchestrated a premeditated and vicious attack on the victim. She commended the public for their intervention and bravery in restraining Worville, ensuring the victim’s safety.
Worville’s refusal to acknowledge his intent to kill and his subsequent trial tactics were condemned by the prosecution, leading to the indictment of attempted murder. The severity of Worville’s actions and the enduring impact on the victim were underscored throughout the legal proceedings.
