The family of Gary Carlisle, a 62-year-old dog walker, have expressed profound disappointment and a sense of betrayal following the attack that led to his death. They feel the authorities failed to adequately protect him.

Brutal Attack in Preston

Mr. Carlisle was randomly attacked by Jacob Hill, a 32-year-old man suffering from paranoid schizophrenia, on March 12th of last year in Preston, Lancashire. The attack occurred in broad daylight near Mr. Carlisle’s home.

Details of the Assault

CCTV footage showed Hill’s erratic behavior before he approached Mr. Carlisle and his dog, Molly. Despite attempts to avoid the attacker, Mr. Carlisle was relentlessly pursued and subjected to a horrific assault, including repeated kicks and stamps to the head.

Witness Intervention and Aftermath

Witnesses, including a bus passenger who bravely attempted to intervene, described the scene as horrific. The bus passenger sustained injuries after being headbutted by Hill during the confrontation. Mr. Carlisle succumbed to catastrophic brain injuries a week after the attack.

Family's Statement and Concerns

Mr. Carlisle’s sister, Jackie Watters, stated the family felt ‘let down’ by a system that allowed Hill to live unsupervised in the community. His daughter, Simone Hartley, echoed these sentiments, questioning why changes weren’t made to prevent the tragedy, noting Hill was known to mental health services.

Hill's History and Mental State

The defense acknowledged Hill’s attempts to seek stronger medication before the incident, indicating awareness of his deteriorating mental state. Psychiatrists confirmed Hill’s long-standing and severe psychotic illness, present since his late teens, and multiple hospitalizations. He had a history of assaults, though none had previously led to prosecution.

Legal Outcome and Current Status

Hill pleaded guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He is currently receiving treatment in a high-security psychiatric hospital and is reported to be stable on a high dose of antipsychotic medication, but remains at risk of relapse.

Sentencing and Judge's Remarks

Judge Robert Altham sentenced Hill to a hospital order, stipulating release requires approval from the Secretary of State or a mental health tribunal. The judge acknowledged the family’s pain and expressed concern that Hill’s illness wouldn’t alleviate their grief.

Police Commendation

Detective Superintendent John McNamara commended the bravery of the bus passenger who intervened and affirmed the police’s support for Mr. Carlisle’s family.

Renewed Scrutiny of Mental Health Care

The case has sparked renewed scrutiny of mental health care provisions and the balance between community living and public safety, raising critical questions about protecting vulnerable individuals and preventing future tragedies.