A man who launched an unprovoked machete attack on a 14-year-old boy has been jailed for over two years.

The victim had been cycling with a friend in Pennymead, Harlow, on the evening of February 8 when he was confronted by 28-year-old Connor Shand.

Shand ran at the boy and swung a machete at him as he tried to get off his bike.

The teenager’s ankle was cut but was lucky not to be seriously injured.

Investigating officer PC Craig Davey described the incident as an “unprovoked” attack “which left two teenage boys terrified and could have led to the victim being seriously injured.”

He added: “Connor Shand is a dangerous individual who intimidated and threatened a complete stranger.

“It’s extremely concerning that he appeared so comfortable threatening violence and carrying a weapon.”

The court heard how following the attack, Shand, attended an address nearby where he made threats on the phone to another person.

He was arrested within half an hour of the attack and charged with GBH with intent, possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, criminal damage, and sending a letter, communication or article conveying a threatening message.

He admitted the offences of GBH , criminal damage and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place in March and, at Chelmsford Crown Court on May 13, was jailed for two years and three months.

PC Craig Davey added: “He now faces time in prison to contemplate his actions and the lasting impact they could have on those involved.”

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