Shannon Meaney (13/08/1990) of no fixed address was today (Tuesday 29 April 2025) sentenced to life in prison, and must serve at least nine years, at Manchester Crown Court.
This is after he pleaded guilty to the serious assault of John Lowe in Clarendon Park, Salford back in February 2023.
GMP’s Major Incident detectives took the case on from divisional officers later that month after John’s condition worsened and it became life-threatening.
With it being over two years since the incident, John, who is now in his 60s, has been left with life-changing injuries and is in need of round-the-clock care.
Despite the challenges faced by detectives they have always had John at the forefront of their minds to ensure they can bring him some justice. Working tirelessly, as a result of a meticulous investigation, which included extensive CCTV enquiries and forensics footwear comparisons to match the footprint from a trainer that was imprinted on the side of John’s head from his serious injuries, Meaney was identified, arrested days later and then charged. He then pleaded guilty to the offence of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.
On the sentencing result, Detective Chief Inspector Neil Higginson from GMP’s Serious Crime Division said;
“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.
“Since we took on this case, we have faced challenges and setbacks but have remained resilient in securing the best possible outcome.
“We were determined to do everything possible to ensure Meaney has to face the consequences of his actions knowing the impact they have had on John’s life. I would like to commend John’s family for their bravery, and the support they have given the investigation, especially his daughter, who has made clear the severe challenges they are continuing to try to overcome.”
In her victim impact statement, John’s daughter, said;
“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.
“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.”
