In a shocking case, Jonathan Creak, a 50-year-old former Army officer, has been accused of a brutal attack on his ex-wife, Rhiannon Creak, in July 2024.
The court heard today that Creak, armed with a Stanley knife, repeatedly slashed his ex-wife’s throat, leaving her with life-threatening injuries.
During the attack, Creak allegedly shouted “you need to die,” as he carried out the violent assault in a quiet country lane in Norfolk.
A Violent Confrontation in a Country Lane
The attack occurred after Creak drove from his home in Oxfordshire to confront Rhiannon in Norfolk.
The two had been divorced for two years, with no direct contact in recent years except through their respective lawyers over financial matters.
Prosecutor Claire Matthews explained that the confrontation took place when Rhiannon, 43, was driving her new partner’s car.
As she became aware of being followed by Creak’s white van, her anxiety grew.
When she stopped her car, Creak parked his van “nose to nose” with hers, leading to a heated exchange.
The Attack Unfolds
Rhiannon reportedly asked Creak what he was doing there, to which he responded by saying she had taken everything from him.
He then pulled out a knife and began the violent attack.
The prosecution detailed how Creak slashed at Rhiannon’s neck, back, breast, and leg, leaving her with severe injuries, including an eight-inch cut to her neck.
Rhiannon screamed and struggled to breathe through the blood pouring from her wounds, desperately trying to protect herself.
A Heroic Rescue and a Chilling Confession
The attack was interrupted when a local villager heard the commotion and rushed to Rhiannon’s aid.
Creak fled the scene, but his actions didn’t stop there.
He called his partner, Sophie Carter, and claimed that he had killed Rhiannon.
The chilling conversation prompted Sophie to immediately call the police.
When police officers intercepted Creak’s call, he allegedly told them, “I have done it. I have killed my ex-wife.”
The Aftermath and Creak’s Defense
Creak was arrested while heading back to Oxfordshire, found with bloodstains on his hands and clothing, and the Stanley knife still in his pocket.
In his prepared statement to police, Creak admitted to the assault but denied intending to kill Rhiannon, claiming he had simply been trying to confront her over unresolved financial issues and the bitterness stemming from his new relationship.
The Prosecution’s Case
Prosecutor Claire Matthews described the attack as chilling and vicious, highlighting that Creak’s actions, including his words and the brutal slashing, demonstrated an intent to kill.
Despite his defense, which claims he didn’t plan to seriously harm Rhiannon, the prosecution argued that his behavior pointed to an intent to end her life.
Matthews emphasized the ongoing domestic tensions leading up to the attack, suggesting they played a significant role in Creak’s violent outburst.
The Trial Continues
The trial is still ongoing, with the jury hearing more details about the events leading up to the attack and the aftermath.
Jonathan Creak faces charges of attempted murder and grievous bodily harm with intent, but he denies the more serious allegations, claiming his actions were not premeditated.
The court proceedings will continue as the defense and prosecution present their cases.