Disturbing video footage captured the shocking moment when a neighbor threw a kettle filled with boiling water at a disabled grandmother, causing severe injuries. Susan Varley, 68, was accompanying her four-year-old grandson to school when her neighbor, Ina Priestly, 56, approached her and poured the scalding water on her face. The CCTV footage of the incident shows Susan falling to the ground in agony as Priestly callously walked away.
As a result of the attack, Susan sustained significant burns to her scalp, forehead, left cheek, ear, and the back of her neck. Luckily, her eyesight was preserved due to the glasses she was wearing, while her grandson escaped unharmed because he had his hood up.
Following the incident, Ina admitted guilt to causing grievous bodily harm with intent at Leeds Crown Court and received a two-year community order. She is mandated to participate in up to 25 rehabilitation activities. Susan, a resident of Morley, Leeds, remains too unwell to communicate, but her daughter Donna, 35, expressed how her mother’s life has been drastically altered by the assault.
Donna revealed a history of ongoing trouble caused by Ina, who lived next door to Susan for two decades. The continuous threats and damaging actions culminated in the horrifying attack on Susan. The incident occurred early in the morning while Susan was walking her grandson to school, prompting a swift response from her husband, who sought medical assistance and reported the assault to the authorities.
Susan received treatment for her burns at Leeds General Infirmary before undergoing surgery at Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield to address blisters on her face and head. Donna recounted the harrowing experience of witnessing her mother’s injuries and the subsequent medical care needed to prevent infections.
Despite the trauma, Susan was discharged on the same day of treatment. Ina initially pleaded not guilty at Leeds Magistrates’ Court but later changed her plea to guilty before the trial commenced. She was subsequently sentenced to a two-year community order, rehabilitation activities, a surcharge, and an indefinite restraining order preventing any contact with Susan.
The incident and its aftermath have left a lasting impact on Susan and her family, highlighting the importance of community safety and accountability.
