'I felt like I was melting' Acid attack victim calls for tougher laws to stop crime surge
A YOUNG woman who was left scarred for life after being attacked with acid has called for tougher laws to stop the number of attacks escalating.
Adele Bellis, 25, lost an ear, was left partially bald and has life-changing permanent scarring following an acid attack in August 2014, which had been arranged by her former partner Anthony Riley.
Following a spate of acid attacks in London last night which left one victim with “life-changing” injuries, Ms Bellis has bravely spoken out and demanded tougher punishments for those convicted of carrying out these horrendous attacks.
Until something is done and the sentences become longer, these attacks will keep happening
Speaking to Sun Online, she said: “The effects from the acid being thrown at me will stay with me for ever, and the psychological effect is the worst.
“If someone carries out a knife attack, they get a longer sentence but an acid attack is a lot, lot worse.
“It isn’t even just the victim that has to deal with the attack – I still remember how my mum and dad were and they won’t ever get over it.
“The jail sentences need to be longer – there isn’t a set guideline so it varies from person to person and there’s no consistency.
“Until something is done and the sentences become longer, these attacks will keep happening.”
Under current guidelines acid attacks and stabbings can be prosecuted under the same law, with both carrying life sentences in theory. Whereas a stabbing can carry the much more serious charge of attempted murder, it is unlikely an acid attack will ever be treated the same.
Acid attacks are on the rise in London, with 431 victims last year alone - compared with less than 200 in 2014.
Met police chief vows to battle 'barbaric' acid attacks
The news comes as TV presenter and model Katie Piper, who was also the victim of an acid attack in 2008, joined calls for tougher sentences.
She said: "Lives can be destroyed in moments.
"Survivors of such attacks often have to live with the immediate fear that their attackers may still be at large, and in the longer term - even if the attackers are caught and sentenced - may be released to potentially live alongside them after serving a minimum term.
"I meet many inspiring individuals who have worked hard to rebuild their lives after an attack; however, it can be hard to stay motivated when the justice system does not always reflect the severity of these crimes."
Chief Inspector Ben Clark, from Hackney Borough, said on Friday afternoon: "This is a fast moving investigation and we have made two arrests today. However, I would like to ask the public for their help. Each of these offences took place in busy locations and we know there may be witnesses who have not yet contacted us.
"If you saw something or managed to film or photograph anything that might help us please get in touch.
"These are hideous offences and must have been very frightening for all of the victims.
"I'm aware of rumours circulating that the victims were all food delivery riders set up in advance of the attacks. This is not the case. All victims were riding mopeds at the time of the attacks, but were from a variety of backgrounds.
"Of late we have seen more attacks using corrosive substances in London.
"I would urge businesses and parents to challenge those who they think may be trying to obtain or carry these substances as this could help prevent serious offences and life changing injuries being caused."