A “vicious and cowardly” man who left a father “a shell of himself” and in need of round-the-clock care has been jailed for life.
Shannon Meaney, 34, of no fixed address, admitted the assault on John Lowe, 58, in Clarendon Park, Salford on 14 February 2023.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said a trainer footprint imprinted on the side of Mr Lowe’s head helped officers to identify the attacker.
Meaney was ordered at Manchester Crown Court to serve a minimum of nine years for the assault on Mr Lowe, who was described by his daughter as a “loving, caring and gentle father”.
Mr Lowe’s daughter, Lily, said in her victim impact statement: “On Tuesday 14 February, our family’s life was tragically changed forever.
“Our loving, caring, gentle father, who was loved by all in his community for his huge smile and cheeky demeanour, was the victim of a senseless and cowardly attack.
“Nearing 60 years of age, this brutal attack has left him with life-changing injuries and has altered the lives of all our family forever.”
She added: “We were used to seeing our dad full of energy, the life and soul of the party.
“This attack has made him a shell of a person and all we can do is witness him deteriorate right before our eyes.”
GMP said officers carried out a meticulous investigation, which included forensics footwear comparisons to match the footprint from a trainer imprinted on the side of Mr Lowe’s head.
Meaney was arrested days later and then charged.
He pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent.
After sentencing, Det Ch Insp Neil Higginson said police were determined to do everything possible “to ensure Meaney faced the consequences of his actions”.
He added: “Throughout this incident is a man and his loved ones who are having to come to terms with the consequences of this vicious attack which nearly cost John his life.”
