The conviction relates to an incident on 14 January, when emergency services were called to Baguely Crescent in Middleton after reports of a stabbing. The 24-year-old victim had been staying in a caravan with a friend when they were awakened by loud banging and shouting at the door. O’Dea forced his way into the caravan armed with an axe and a knife, attacking the victim over a debt he believed was owed to him.
During the assault, O’Dea threatened to bite the victim’s ear off if he didn’t pay and cut his arm with a knife. Despite the violent attack, the victim managed to escape and was later found in the street with serious injuries by passersby, who then alerted the police.
A second defendant, Cain Hopkins, 30, was found not guilty at trial in July 2024. The case highlights the severe consequences of violent crime, with GMP continuing to work to bring offenders to justice and protect the community.
