Man Jailed Six Years for Knife and Pole Assault in Neighbor Shed Dispute

A violent dispute between neighbors in Exminster, Devon, escalated when Shane Berry, after consuming nine pints, broke into Mark Taylor's home armed with a large knife and a metal scaffolding pole. The assault resulted in severe injuries to Taylor, including 24 staples in his head and 15 stitches in his hand, as he defended himself from Berry's attack. The conflict originated from a series of petty disputes over boundary fencing, spotlights, planning permission for garden sheds, and CCTV usage, which had simmered for nearly two years despite attempts at mediation and an anti-social behaviour agreement. Berry was sentenced to six years in prison for grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of an offensive weapon. Taylor denied claims made by Berry's barrister that Berry's mother had been threatened, emphasizing that they had no contact with Berry for almost two years prior to the attack and felt they were not the instigators. This case highlights how minor neighborhood disagreements, particularly about property and planning issues, can dangerously escalate when unresolved tensions and aggressive behavior combine.