Winchester Prisoner Sentenced to Eight Years After Boiling Water Attack on Inmate

A violent inmate at HMP Winchester has been sentenced to eight years in prison after launching a premeditated attack on a fellow prisoner with a kettle of boiling water.

Dashiell Mahi, 26, was convicted of causing grievous bodily harm with intent following a three-day trial at Salisbury Crown Court in June. He was sentenced on Monday, 18 August, at Winchester Crown Court.

The court heard that Mahi, formerly of North Road, Richmond-upon-Thames, carried out the calculated assault on inmate Aaron Phillips by concealing a kettle of boiling water inside a bucket, waiting behind a shower block door, and then entering the cell where Mr Phillips was located. Once inside, Mahi threw the boiling water over Phillips’ face, neck, and shoulder, before continuing the attack by punching him to the ground.

Prison officers quickly intervened to stop the assault, and Mr Phillips, who is in his 20s, was taken to a specialist hospital unit to receive treatment for serious burns.

The incident was promptly reported to Hampshire Police. During the investigation, it was established that Mahi had deliberately left his cell with the concealed kettle and waited for the opportunity to attack.

The court was also told that Mahi had a history of violent behaviour while in custody, as well as a previous conviction for the sexual exploitation of a child. Given his violent history, the judge deemed him a dangerous offender and imposed an extended sentence of eight years in custody, with an additional two years on licence upon release.

Speaking after the sentencing, Acting Detective Sergeant Matthew Chapman said: “This was a premeditated attack on another inmate, and could have resulted in more serious injury.

“Mahi denied carrying out the attack, but it was clear to the jury, through the evidence put forward at trial, that he was responsible.

“Our investigators work closely with the prison to make sure that evidence of any criminal activity is captured early and those responsible brought before the court.

“This result means that Mahi will be behind bars for a significant period of time and not out on the streets.”