Burglar who attacked sleeping man jailed

A burglar who broke into a home and attacked a man while he slept has been jailed.

Joshua McMenamin, 32, of Friary Lane, Salisbury, was sentenced to five years and seven months at Winchester Crown Court on Thursday after pleading guilty to aggravated burglary.

Police were called to a report that a man had been woken by someone armed with a knife attempting to attack him at a property on Centurion Close, Salisbury, in the early hours of 7 August 2025.

The victim, who knew McMenamin, told the court in a statement: "This incident has shaken me up. This is something that now keeps me awake at night, as I know that I might wake up and see him in my room again. It really scares me."

The victim managed to retrieve the knife from McMenamin and was able to escape the property by jumping to the ground from a balcony. He sustained a bruised face and cuts, the court was told.

Wiltshire Police said they believed McMenamin had been attempting to steal valuables.

"When officers arrived at the scene, they located a knife as well as a safe which was located outside the property – it is believed McMenamin was attempting to make off with the contents," said PC Charlie Foster.

"The victim has described the impact this incident has had on him, and this is totally unacceptable," he added.

"Nobody should face this kind of fear in what should be the safety of their home and I am pleased that a custodial sentence has been given."

McMenamin must also pay a surcharge of £228.

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